AXPONA 2016 Show Report -- Audio Expo North America
Daedalus Audio DiD & ModWright Tryst Vacuum Tube Headphone Amplifier

   Daedalus Audio had the ModWright Tryst vacuum tube headphone amp ($2995) on their DiD isolation devices ($480 for set of three). Daedalus Audio's DiD are audio footers that really do make a difference! They are said to be particularly effective under DACs, CD players, and tube amplifiers. The Chief Engineer at Daedalus Audio has always been skeptical of many audio tweaks and if they are really worth the money. Yet as audiophiles keep pushing the envelope to make recorded music sound 'real', he saw the need to look at every aspect of the signal chain. This is the kind of design philosophy that has the company constantly improving their speakers and investigating every detail that goes into the system. Their DiD device utilize dissimilar materials to dissipate resonance coupled with bearings to also isolate the electronic component from vibration. They are precision made of highly polished billet aluminum, solid Cherry and brass with steel bearings.

ModWright's bespoke Tryst vacuum tube stereo headphone amplifier is their no compromise in component, build quality, finish and sound. Tryst was designed to drive all modern headphones, with the exception of Stax and other electrostats, that require a specific type of amplifier. At over 3 Watts into 18 Ohms, the amp offers plenty of power for the most demanding applications. There are two source inputs plus two preamplifier outputs for use as a preamp or with other powered desktop speakers, etc. Outputs include 1/4" stereo, IEM (mini stereo) and four pin XLR balanced outputs. The circuit is all tube, interstage and output transformer coupled with custom hand-wound transformers from Jack Elliano at Electraprint Audio. Tube compliment is all NOS with a pair of 6922, four 12B4 that are PP transformer coupled with zero negative feedback and pure Class A operation. Controls include input select: Mute, I, II. Volume (Noble pot).

Custom bespoke finishes are available for tube 'hood' and transformer bell ends. Base enclosures are flat black. Knobs and connectors on face are silver. Faceplates are hand polished black anodized AL. These units are built on-demand with regards to finish and possibly other options such as wiring and internal components.

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