Help: tripath amp + DAC vs. tube amp without DAC ?

[hebrer]

Hi,
I need help with my next upgrade: I use CD receiver Onkyo, JMLab Chorus 706 speakers and Signal cables. I now have a budget of up to US$500 for the next upgrade of this system.

Specifically, I am looking at two options:
1) external DAC + tripath amp; some DACs I looked at include MONICA2 diy (http://www.diyparadise.com) and Lite DAC-AH (http://www.pothaudio.com/prod.php?view=20). Some amps I have considered: Sonic T-amp or Charlize DIY. This option costs around US$400 including shipping and custom duties

2) adding entry-level hybrid integrated amp (such as Jolida 1301A - tube preamp + solid state power amp). No DAC. This option costs around US$500 including shipping and custom duties

Any thoughts how best to spend the money for biggest improvement in sound? Thanks so much.

 

[replytoken]

Having just let go of my first tube amp (Jolida 302B), I can say that it provided the most dramatic change to the sound in my system. Tubes are not for everybody, but you owe it to yourself to at least listen to them, perhaps at a dealer. I do miss that tube sound!