Replacing op-amps is a precise but approachable process for anyone comfortable with component-level audio gear. It’s a way to alter the tonal character of a DAC, preamp, or headphone amplifier without changing the entire circuit. Because op-amps are socketed, the process requires no soldering, but it does demand patience, careful handling, and attention to orientation.
It would be good to list compatible op amps, or specs to look for in alternative op amps. I put in two Virtual Supersonic V2s for the XLRs, and they sounded terrible in the Druid.
@UbdU we have tried some op-amps and @tom_at_apos can tell you the list we tried. We did of course try to get a hold of Virtual Supersonic a lot to test before launch but they never responded back to us. Lachlan tried some of the Virtual Supersonic op-amps and he really liked them https://youtu.be/V_jVW9Yh1oY?t=1067
One more point here which came from a discussion with a community member.
The specific internal rail voltages supplied to the op-amps in the Druid DAC is ±10V. This will help determine the op-amps that can be driven well on the Druid.
A note from the community member:
“With a rail voltage of 10V, the Burson V5i and Sparkos SS3602 will make excellent fits. The Burson V6s may still be okay (rail voltage fine, but twice the LM4562 current draw, pushing the regulator outside its design envelope). The Burson V7s and Sparkos SS2590 would be too stressful for rails and regulators, likely resulting in regulator noise, increased heat and degraded sound.”
Hope this helps. The Virtual Supersonic V1 and V2 should be ok to drive but Burson V7 will be pushing it.
Yeah. Burson V5i should be a good fit. V7s will be tad hard to drive. All Burson op-amps are compatible with the Druid using the lifts included with the DAC.