James,
I've now used the DAC-1 with KT 88, KT 66, and solid state amps into current spec VSMs. After a couple of weeks, I feel like I'm getting a sense of the DAC-1 versus, at least, the Cary through the VSMs. My basic reaction is that the DAC -1 will feel less "tubey" in that the mid-bass will seem shelved down a bit. The traditional Merlin character (to me, 'stat-like) in the mids will seem even more enhanced. In some systems, this may walk a fine line, flirting with too much of a good thing and approaching a slightly thin, analytical character. So, paradoxically.....
On the one hand a slightly aggresssive amp (in my case KT88 in Prima Luna 7s) may sound "tamer".
OTOH a lusher amp may also sound more neutral.
but, if your system is tonally where you want it now, the DAC-1 may bump you over the "analytical" line, IMHO.
Best Luck
Marty
I've now used the DAC-1 with KT 88, KT 66, and solid state amps into current spec VSMs. After a couple of weeks, I feel like I'm getting a sense of the DAC-1 versus, at least, the Cary through the VSMs. My basic reaction is that the DAC -1 will feel less "tubey" in that the mid-bass will seem shelved down a bit. The traditional Merlin character (to me, 'stat-like) in the mids will seem even more enhanced. In some systems, this may walk a fine line, flirting with too much of a good thing and approaching a slightly thin, analytical character. So, paradoxically.....
On the one hand a slightly aggresssive amp (in my case KT88 in Prima Luna 7s) may sound "tamer".
OTOH a lusher amp may also sound more neutral.
but, if your system is tonally where you want it now, the DAC-1 may bump you over the "analytical" line, IMHO.
Best Luck
Marty