SW1X VDT I

The SW1X VDT I is SW1X Audio Design's entry-level Valve Digital Transport, a network music server and streamer that replaces the resonant digital circuitry of conventional streaming sources with a valve-amplified SPDIF output and discrete transistor master clock, eliminating transistor-count as much as possible and maximizing the musicality and organic character of the digital output. Designed to partner with SW1X DACs for maximum synergy. Made in the UK.

Type and Technology

Valve digital transport and network music server. Transistor discrete master clock for timing stability with lower noise than switching-based clocks. Valve-amplified SPDIF signal output stage, the SPDIF signal passes through a valve output stage before leaving the chassis, imparting the same zero-transistor-in-signal-path philosophy that defines SW1X's DAC and amplifier products. Three fully independent discrete linear power supplies: one for the CPU, one for the master clock, and one for the valve output stage, each isolated from the others to prevent interference. Valve-rectified and choke-filtered power supply for the SPDIF output valve stage. All internal wiring with SW1X Magnum, Genesis, and Opus conductors. Copper foil-in-oil signal decoupling capacitors. M6 grain-oriented EI core mains transformers. Minimum SMD components. Audio playback OS: Volumio (standard) on audio-optimized Linux, supporting UPnP/DLNA, OpenHome, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz. Controlled via web browser or app. Compatible with SW1X DAC products for maximum system synergy.

Sound Character

The VDT I's valve output stage imparts a naturalness, warmth, and tonal coherence to the SPDIF signal that transistor-output transports cannot produce, the same organic quality that characterizes SW1X's DAC and amplifier lineup applied to the digital source. As the entry point to the VDT lineup, the VDT I is the foundation of a fully SW1X digital system at the most accessible price.

Build and Finish

145 x 345 x 410mm at 10kg. Available in matte Black or satin Silver front fascia.

Tube Complement

Master Clock: 1x EBB91/EAA91. Output Stage: 1x E180F, 1x 6X4.

Best For

SW1X DAC owners who want to complete their system with a valve digital transport that shares the same design philosophy and internal wiring standards as their DAC.

Specifications