SW1X VDT II

The SW1X VDT II is the second-tier Valve Digital Transport from SW1X Audio Design, a meaningful step up from the VDT I with the addition of a valve master clock, replacing the transistor clock of the entry model with a tube-based clock oscillator that SW1X considers the heart of the digital signal path. The valve master clock further reduces time-domain distortions compared to conventional clock architectures and deepens the analogue character of the digital output. Made in the UK.

Type and Technology

Valve digital transport and network music server with valve master clock. The VDT II's key advancement over the VDT I is the valve master clock, a tube oscillator using a 6DJ7 (ECC88) and EBB91/EAA91 in the clock circuit, replacing the transistor-based clock of the VDT I. SW1X's philosophy is that the master clock is the heart of all digital audio timing and that introducing even a single transistor into this stage degrades musicality; the VDT II eliminates this compromise. Valve-amplified SPDIF signal output stage. Three fully independent discrete linear power supplies, one for the CPU, one for the valve master clock, and one for the valve output stage, each with separate M6 EI core mains transformers (3 total). Valve-rectified and choke-filtered power supply for the master clock. Valve-rectified and choke-filtered power supply for the SPDIF output stage. All internal wiring with SW1X Magnum, Genesis, and Opus conductors. Copper foil-in-oil signal decoupling capacitors. Streaming via Volumio on audio-optimized Linux: UPnP/DLNA, OpenHome, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz. Compatible with SW1X DAC products.

Sound Character

The valve master clock is what distinguishes the VDT II from the VDT I in listening, SW1X's research indicates that the clock signal quality is the primary determinant of the analogue musical character of any digital system. The VDT II's all-valve clock and output stage produces a more natural, flowing, and dimensionally convincing presentation than the transistor-clocked VDT I, with deeper instrument separation and a more cohesive tonal envelope across the frequency range.

Build and Finish

145 x 345 x 410mm at 12kg. Available in matte Black or satin Silver front fascia.

Tube Complement

Master Clock: 1x 6DJ7 (ECC88), 1x EBB91/EAA91. Output Stage: 1x E180F or EC86, 1x 6X4.

Best For

SW1X DAC owners who want the full valve master clock experience in their digital transport, and those who have heard a VDT I and want the next step in analogue musicality from their streaming source.

Specifications