DAC Tube Output Stage Kit

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Since 1987

DTO - DAC Tube Output Stage Kit

The DTO installed in a Marantz DV9600

No, this is not a D/A converter kit, but it is an easily implemented tube output stage for your CD, DVD and SACD player. Built around our CATO tube/mosfet module, we have configured it as a I/V converter stage and then added a compact outboard B+ and tube filament power with umbilical. It is a complete kit. All you have to do is find a location to mount the two CATO modules inside your player, add an umbilical connector to connect our power supply and you are ready to roll. We'll even help you determine where best to splice into your existing DAC circuitry.

THE SOUND -

We've been using this upgrade in our Denon 2900 for the last two years. If you've heard our exhibit room at one of the shows recently (VTV Expo, CES, Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, etc.) then you've heard this design. The sonic results delivered include a smooth and slightly warmer midrange, excellent low level resolution and detail, plus a noticeable improvement in dynamics. Of course your results may very.

We just recently installed this upgrade in a friend's Marantz DV9600 and he was very pleased with the overall improvement too.

WHAT YOU GET -

Two CATO Modules configured for I/V conversion (either single-ended or differential), including a set of matched pair NOS 6GM8 tubes.

Outboard Power Supply for B+ and tube filament with umbilical cable/connectors and chassis. The outboard power supply is housed in an extruded aluminum enclosure measuring 6.5"W x 8"D x 2"H.

Shielded Power Cable with IEC connector. Teflon coated hookup wire.

Detailed assembly manual.

While we have successfully implemented this design in several digital players there are literally hundreds more out there that we have not tried. So please don't email us with questions like: "Will it work in my Sears DVD player?" OK? Please no emails?

The CATO can be configured to operate with most D/A converter chips on the market - past and present. If you wish to determine if your player can be upgraded with our kit you will first need to do some homework. You can call most manufacturers and ask them for a copy of the Service Manual for your product. In most cases this will cost a nominal fee of $15-$35. Once you have this manual, make a copy of the DAC circuit and its output stage. THEN YOU CAN EMAIL US. Email us a clear copy of this schematic and we will tell you if our design will work with your DAC and we will also show you where to insert the tube stage.

If you can't read schematics, don't know what a DAC chip looks like or what an I/V converter is, you probably shouldn't consider this venture. This upgrade should only be attempted by experienced DIY'ers.

Denon 2900 output stage before

Denon 2900 with CATO inserted

A picture of the DTO prototype first installed in a Denon 2900

Assembly is straight forward with all components soldered to the circuit boards. Once the circuit boards are assembled it is mounted inside the enclosures followed by attachment of the ac power cord and umbilical cable. Following our step-by-step instruction manual results in an assembly time of approximately 4 hours.

You can also order the DTO with one of our new Welborne Labs Power Cable kits. Click on the picture for more details about the cable. A four foot cable with outer jacket is provided with the upgrade. Cable pricing is below and is only applicable when purchased together with the DTO.

DTO1	Complete DTO Kit	$425.00

DCORD1	WLabs DTO Power Cord Kit 4 foot length	$65.00

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