[mark-e-mark]

Even the used prices at ~$500 seemed high for the X-DAC, so I got a slightly used Zhalou D2 (AD1852 + upgraded Opamps) for $150 instead. I had purchased the X-10 some time ago after reading the reviews suggesting the combo with the X-DAC.

Although I was impressed with the improved sound the D2 provided over my stock SB3, what surprised me most was the fact I liked the tube buffer with that combo the most. I love the resolution of SS, and never figured I would like the X-10 just by itself.

I used the bypass loop out on the X-10 connected to an open RCA connection on my integrated so I could flip back and forth with the remote for comparison. It took a while for me to understand what it is I liked, but I could tell every time I changed over to the music playing with the X-10. Interestingly, I only really noticed when I added the X-10 to the mix, not when I removed it.

It's the extremes of frequencies that I really noticed, especially bass. I really heard it on Miles' My Funny Valentine. I should say I felt it, and could definitely tell my Rell subwoof was doing more when the X-10 was included in the mix. Otherwise what I noticed was the air and perhaps sounds of the recording room-- the stuff of imagery.

I'm sitting here thinking that I stumbled on something incredible. Who would've guessed from a solid state lover?

 

[cotdt]

do tube buffers supply current?

 

[mark-e-mark]

Quote:

Originally Posted by cotdt /img/forum/go_quote.gif do tube buffers supply current?

The review on AVGuide suggests that it improves the output power of the source. "The X-10V3 presents an ideal, very high-impedance 470-kOhm load (much higher than the input impedance of most audio components) that is so easy to drive that the X-10V3 can even be used with inexpensive Walkman-type battery-powered players."

I'm not an engineer, so I can't really evaluate this review. I'm keeping it because it brings out bass, and to a lesser degree top end, with my Zhalou D2. The naggging question is whether it's better or the same as the Zapfilter upgrate for about $225 and several hours soldering work. Or maybe I should try some other inexpensive SS DACs with it.... so many choices!

 

[regal]

There are some DAC's where a buffer is almost a requirement. In the case of passive I/V 1545 based DAC's you need a buffer with a low input impedance to keep the DAC chip out of distortion.

 

[mark-e-mark]

Quote:

Originally Posted by regal /img/forum/go_quote.gif There are some DAC's where a buffer is almost a requirement. In the case of passive I/V 1545 based DAC's you need a buffer with a low input impedance to keep the DAC chip out of distortion.

Are you refering to the TDA 1545 based DACs that I see on ebay? I think I saw the board for the Lite DAC-AH with 8 of those chips. Have you tried this?

 

[A.Thorsen]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark-e-mark /img/forum/go_quote.gif ... The naggging question is whether it's better or the same as the Zapfilter upgrate for about $225 and several hours soldering work. Or maybe I should try some other inexpensive SS DACs with it.... so many choices!

I'm still on the fence about buying one of these as well, for just the reasons/questions you put forth.

I see that there's a limited run of these things though and time is running fairly short.

Maybe I'm not exposed enough, but it seems to me this tube buffer is somewhat of a unique product, is it not? Almost one of a kind?

The review you linked suggested a "shock and awe" sound experience which is one of the reasons why I'm intruiged by this thing.

What else out there can do what this tube buffer can do? DACs?

 

[cotdt]

i think this would work well with the zapfilter if it provides current. then no headphone amp would be needed.