Metrum Octave versus Eastern Electric DAC

hi mikirob:
as audio is a subjective hobby, your point is well taken. although you have achieved good performance from the minimax, you think that , perhaps, somewhat more reolution , perhaps, would be preferred.

is it possible that you could achieve what you feel is lacking in the minimax, by trying a different tube.

for example, i have found that a 12au7 or 12at7 yellow label brimar works best.

in addition, there are other brands and vintages, you have not auditioned.

if i were in your position, i would experiment with tubes and/or interconnects or digital cables, before i replaced the dac.

once you own the metrum, you lose the affect of tube changes upon the sound of your stereo system.

You have to try the Dexa Discrete op-amps to fully bring out the analog tone you are seeking.
My 2Cents for what it is worth.

Hi Morningstaraudio,

Your 2Cents is highly valued. So, the Dexa Discrete Op amp is the ticket to a more analogue sound, more warmth, more body to the sound? How much in the older volume control unit? Also, I'm in southern GA about 40 minutes north of Jacksonville, FL. How far from here are you? Might be worth a drive to drop it off and get the mod.

He's a long way from you, Chicago area, you can install yourself
Let us know how you like it
Google is a great thing

I'll be brief since the Olympics are on...
You need the DAC Plus version; forget about the upgrade to the original unless (and ONLY unless) you can't swing the money for the Plus version.

See my Audio Blast articles at Dagogo.com about all things EE DAC and the Plus version, as well as discrete Opamp rolling them.

The experience of the Plus version is drastically better than the original. If you have the money to do the Plus version the discrete Opamp upgrade on the original would be a mistake. Nuf said. :)