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Tube DAC with i2s input?

Hi all, I want to upgrade from my Pontus II which is a good DAC but I'm looking for better depth/dimension, separation and analog warmth. I recently added a Laiv uDDC to the Pontus and that improved things notably so I'd like to keep that option for a new tube DAC, however most I come across do not have i2s input. Any suggestions? Budget $4-6k thanks. - Rich 

fastricky
nepfotos
16 posts
 

@fastricky  I own a black LaScala with a RJ45 AQlink, which is their name for the I2S serial bus

fastricky OP
139 posts
 

@nepfotos OK thanks, but my i2s is the HDMI style, it seems theirs is different? 

soix
11,230 posts
 

Suffice it to say, I'm going to hold out for an option that ticks all the boxes, I may be waiting over a year but at some point some builder WILL offer all of these options. 

Yeah maybe one or two — maybe — but what are the odds they produce the sound you’re looking for?  Good luck with that. 

dgarretson
2,632 posts
 

If holding out for I2S you might wait a few months for PS Audio's new top model.

lanx0003
1,926 posts
 

Op, Tarun from A British Audiophile commented that adding a quality DDC brings the Pontus II much closer to the performance of the Venus II. You've gone through that process and proven it to be true. Don't feel peer-pressured by anyone who has never owned or home-auditioned the fantastic gear you have. Trust trustworthy reviewers like the one mentioned above, and take the time to enjoy what you have—something many other audiophiles can only dream of.

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