At first I used the DAC III SE to drive my power amps using an Apple remote for volume control and Arduino controller. To support my turntable I built a preamp using the IVY III. With input switching for single ended inputs and balanced inputs and a quad stepped attenuator I have a flexible and excellent preamp. I increased the gain some.

To eliminate one cable I put the DAC III SE and this preamp in one case. Using an Amanero USB connecting my music server I can play Direct Stream Digital files using Foobar (must setup correctly so it doesn't convert formats) and up to 384K sample rate. I use XXHighEnd for most music.

I reused a nice case but ran out of room so the Retro Phone Preamp is in its own case. I put 16 alkaline batteries in another case and I am working on a rechargeable battery supply for the Retro (and preamp?). I have better resolution/detail with the Retro than my (modified) Jolida JD9 II which was, I thought, quite decent.

I am very grateful for the work TPA has done with providing great products at a great price.