[E8ArmyDiver]

As stated in the title,
before I drop $1400.00 on the WA7 Gen.III,I am looking for recommendations for an end game,TUBE or Hybrid, USB DAC/Headphone Amp/PreAmp that would be considered the next level of performance up from the Woo, around $2000.00...This will be used to drive wireless speakers,as well as my H.F.M. Ananda Nano & iBasso SR-1,with a possible upgrade to an end game pair of unknown specification in early 2026...

 

[TwizzyTonkaa]

You could probably find a used Schiit Folkvangr for 2000. Big 10 tube amp. Another option would be the Feliks Audio Elise MK2 (brand new price $1995)

 

[cloudyhead]

+1 for the Elise, heard great things.

 

[theveterans]

LTA Velo, the end

 

[E8ArmyDiver]

While I appreciate the willingness to participate,NONE of the recommendations have built in DACs...

 

[TwizzyTonkaa]

While I appreciate the willingness to participate,NONE of the recommendations have built in DACs...

That's how it is with high end audio. Sure it costs more money to get a seperate DAC but then you'll be able to swap it out rather than being stuck with the built in

 

[E8ArmyDiver]

That's how it is with high end audio. Sure it costs more money to get a seperate DAC but then you'll be able to swap it out rather than being stuck with the built in

I'm not interested in separate components & do not see an all in 1 unit as being "stuck" with something that I won't have the rest of my admittingly shortening life...

 

[rhart00]

Dethonray Listening M1. Slightly above your pricepoint at $2500 but fully loaded for what I believe you are looking for.

Edit - Nevermind. Not tube or hybrid though

 

[JerseyD]

Have not heard it, but you might audition the Auris Audio Euterpe at $1700. All-in-one's with tubes are few and far between. The WA7 is a solid performer at its price, though.

Side-note - I see "SE Texas" in your sig. Heading to CanJam Dallas on 11/2? I'm driving up from Houston (Spring).

 

[grant0317]

If you are absolutely set on not buying an external dac, then just buy the wa7 gen 3, as there are no other tube amps with built-in dacs other than the cheaper ones from xduoo, auris euterpe, and ifi idsd/phantom.