s4yjaipauFrom what I've read, the amp section in the Aune T1 is actually a SS and the DAC is what utilizes the tube. I just got the Bravo Ocean and have been tube rolling, I would highly recommend getting a Bravo product if your on a budget and want to hear what a Class A tube amp is all about. BTW it is a must to tube swap, the stock tubes are horrible!
http://www.head-fi.org/t/633006/aune-t1-usb-tube-dac-amp-discussion-thread-see-first-post-for-faq
Antimacouldn't agree more.
tubes should be replaced straight out of the box.
If you're ok with some DIY work, replacing the transistors and caps makes this one beat any amp under $250 for sure.
Antimaexplain tube rolling to me please?
I was planning on either bypassing my Aune T1 Amp, or my Fiio E17 Alpen Amp for the DACs, into the Bravo V3 IF I get it.
s4yjaipauBasically trying out different tubes. I personally have been getting different NOS (new old stock) tubes and comparing the sound signatures. So far I've tried GE, Electro harmonix and RCA. I really want to try a mullard but the legit looking ones are kinda pricey for me, and the company that makes them now charge quite a bit for them. GE are my favorite so far, but I just got into tube amps so we'll see how that changes. Anyways, sorry for the long post, here's some good starting source material for you. http://hktubeaudio.homestead.com/files/Best_of_the_Best_12AU7.htm
http://www.tnt-audio.com/clinica/ta/nostubes_e.html
Audio is relative and we all have different opinions on good sound so it really is a gamble, hope it helps!
QuadrapusBravo V3 will take 6922 tubes.
If you want the 12AU7 model, get the Bravo V2 or the Ocean.
Bottom line -
Stock V2 and V3 sound almost exactly the same (got both).
Good quality 12AU7 are much cheaper and more common than 6922.