Another new direct-sales product, this one from Hagerman Technology a direct company located in Hawaii that specializes in tube based phono pre-amps, pre-amps and amps (they make several other items as well). Most of their products are available complete or as ‘half-kits’ which consist of a PCB board and instructions with a parts list. The parts are then ordered from popular online electronics supply shops like DigiKey. Jim Hagerman’s most recent creation is the Chime DAC, a combination of a DAC daughter card (aka HagDAC) and a motherboard that contains the input selection and a tube output stage.

The HagDAC is a PCM1704 based 8x oversampling 24-bit DAC that is pre-assembled using surface-mount components and can be purchased separately for $499 for use in other applications.

The motherboard has two S/PDIF and one USB inputs allowing it to operate as a traditional DAC or directly connected to a PC. A completed Chime costs $1,799 while the components to build one yourself cost just under $1,000.

I have built one of Hagerman Tech’s least expensive half-kits, the Bugle and have been very happy with it in my occassional vinyl use. I am considering the Clarinet tube pre-amp as a future DIY project.

Jim provides support for his customers both directly and via the Hagerman Tech Circle on AudioCircle.

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