Ok so took me a bit to respond as I was actually awaiting the MiniMax's arrival as I had just purchased it when I first posted. I have to it sounded pretty darn good with the stock tube and yes even a bit cleaner without it. Playing is is SS mode actually you did not seem to lose a thing while the bottom most particularly became much more articulate. The mids remained just scrumptous and the top end was just as shimmery. This is one dang fine DAC! I could not be happier with it and Njs you are absolutely correct in that I see no need to try rolling tubes in it. Truthfully I don't really even see a need to try any different opamps.. maybe some day but not today :)
