If EVERYTHING sounds bright (ALL of your sources), then a tubed preamp might take care of that (depending on make, model and tubes used). If only your digital system is giving you headaches (literally), try picking up a CAL Sigma or Sigma II DAC. This would target your problem more specifically and keep costs down to a minimum. There's no sense in altering the sound of the WHOLE system if only the digital source is what is aggravating you. The Sigma is very warm and smooth sounding and can be had for well under $300 if you look around. Like the tubed preamp, this DAC would give you the ability to fine tune your digital system to your liking via tube swapping. Keep in mind that when you buy used tube gear though, you should count on re-tubing the gear as part of the cost UNLESS the owner can verify that it was done recently. Even at that, you might not like the specific characteristics of the tubes that they chose and may have to re-tube anyhow. Find out how many tubes the preamp takes, what models and then you'll have a ballpark idea of what it would cost IF this is necessary. Just for references, the CAL Sigma's have only one tube and it's very commonly available at reasonable prices. Sean >
Thanks for advice on smooth amp!
I wanted to thank everyone who checked in with their opinions on what I should do to smooth my system out. I realize that there is much more to think about than just the amp! Unfortunately being on a grad student's budget severely limits my ability to make changes (and I failed to mention my budget limits in my previous post). That being said, I may consider trying out a new CD-only front end, as this, ostensibly, is the weak link in my system. Perhaps a new player, as DAC's tend to be more expensive I think. We shall see... Again, thanks to everyone for helping me out! djjp