Thoebe II Preamp / DAC

Impressive standard features include a highly transparent volume control, bass and treble tone controls, high/low gain settings and a world-class headphone amplifier. Additionally, the Thoebe II can be configured with available add-on options like a reference-level DAC and/or phonostage. The Thoebe II is about ultimate control and flexibility—the perfect preamplifier for any music source. 

Having used [the Thoebe II and Son of Ampzilla II] with electrostatic, dynamic hybrid and full range, supplemented speakers and finding laudable sound, I’m confident they will reward you as well, and when well set up convince you that you have discovered one of the greatest secrets in all of the High End. — Doug Schroeder, Dagogo

Combining the Thoebe II and the Son of Ampzilla II forms an synergistic combination that presents a lifelike flesh and blood realism. — Ron Nagle, Enjoy The Music

The Theobe II preamp does everything you expect from a contemporary preamp...At a base price of $3500, and still under $4500 as reviewed, I wouldn’t exactly call it a bargain, but it’s not far off the mark. — Dan Schwartz, Positive Feedback

Like the [Son of Ampzilla II], it worked absolutely flawlessly, was a joy to use, and in ergonomic terms struck me as about as close to perfection as you can get. If I did not already own a preamplifier that serves my needs perfectly well, the Thoebe II would be a very tempting purchase to consider. — Paul Seydor, The Absolute Sound

As listening continued week after week I repeatedly had the feeling that I could be hearing the Levinson No. 326S, an $11,400 preamplifier.... However, the Thoebe II’s phono stage is better.
Overall rating: 9.5/10 — Jerry Seigel, 10 Audio

• Optional DAC and/or phonostage: 
  • DAC
    • ESS Sabre (9018) 32-bit DAC chip
    • Asynchronous, galvanically isolated USB input supports up to 32-bit 384kHz PCM and DSD64 + DSD128
  • Phonostage
    • Moving magnet or high-output moving coil discrete Class A design and newly developed RIAA optimized topology
• Powerful and transparent built-in Class A headphone amplifier, standard
• Digitally-controlled, channel independent, highly-advanced tone control
• Remarkably transparent and innovative resistive-ladder type volume control unique to the Thoebe II
• High/low gain setting
• Phase and balance controls
• Large, easy-to-read (and dimmable) LED display
• Internal USB connection for any future software updates
• Optional solid billet aluminum full-function remote control
• Heavy gauge steel case and thick anodized aluminum faceplate