Insert the Musical Fidelity MF-X-Tube Tube Output Buffer Between Your Digital Source and Preamp/Amp, and Experience More Richness, Airiness, Depth, Dynamics, and Tonality: Features Two Triode Tubes

Place the Musical Fidelity MF-X-Tube tube output buffer between your preamplifier/integrated amplifier and CD player, streamer, or DAC, and experience more richness, depth, airiness, harmonic character, and organic tonality from the music you hear. Offering prized warmth, naturalism, and dynamics, the five-pound MF-X-Tube helps make digital sound more analog — and far less fatiguing. 

Built with a clean, high-impedance tube input that won’t strain the output drive capability of connected source devices, MF-X-Tube greatly improves upon the inexpensive IC solutions used in many modern digital devices. On the output side, X-Tube has a similarly clean, low-impedance output that offers excellent drive potential with low- and high-impedance amplifier inputs. 

In operation, two E88CC (aka 6922) triode tubes arranged in a non-traditional manner process the entire audio signal in a single-ended manner for fast transient response and minimal loss. One set each of RCA inputs, bypass, and outputs reside on the back panel of a 4.13 x 4.25 x 10.79-inch unit that also protects your amplifier from active loads. If you use MF-X-Tube between a preamplifier and amplifier, you will benefit from the ultimate in impedance matching. 

Housed in a main chassis that consists of a one-piece aluminum extrusion to best sidle against EMI and featuring a gorgeous brushed aluminum faceplate on the front, MF-X-Tube has a direct mains input — meaning, no external power supply is necessary. 

Still wondering about what a tube output buffer is and how it works? Reach out at 312-433-0200 and we will explain anything you want to know about the device, and MF-X-Tube in particular, in detail.

Warmer, More Engaging Sound
One of the most sought-after characteristics of tube amplifiers is their tendency to produce a warmer sound compared to solid-state designs. This warmth can be attributed to the way tubes handle even-order harmonics. Unlike solid-state components that introduce more harsh-sounding odd-order harmonics, tubes tend to emphasize even-order harmonics, which are generally perceived as more pleasant to the human ear. This results in a smoother, more natural soundscape.

Improved Dynamics and Transient Response
Tubes, especially the X-Tube’s triode design with two tubes processing a single-ended signal, can exhibit faster transient response, meaning they can handle rapid changes in volume within the audio signal with minimal distortion. This translates to a more lifelike and dynamic listening experience.

Reduced Listening Fatigue
The smoother sound characteristic of tube output buffers, combined with the emphasis on even-order harmonics, can lead to a less fatiguing listening experience. Solid-state amplifiers or preamplifiers, particularly those with bright tonal characteristics, might cause listening fatigue for extended periods.

Enhanced Air and Space
Tube output buffers are often attributed with creating a more spacious and airy soundstage. This perception can be due to the nuanced harmonic flavor introduced by the tubes, which may add a sense of depth and ambience to the music. 

Tube Buffer 

- Tubes: 2x 6922/E88CC triode tubes 

- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 80kHz + 0, - 0.3dB 

- THD: < 0.003% 10Hz to 20kHz 

- SNR: > 96dB unweighted ref. full output 

- Crosstalk: > 95dB, 20Hz to 20kHz 

- Gain: 1dB 

- Input impedance: 470k Ohms 

- Output impedance: < 33 Ohms

In & Outputs 

- Inputs: 1x RCA 

- Bypass: 1x RCA 

- Output: 1x RCA

Power requirement 

- Mains input: AC 100-230V 50/60Hz IEC C14 socket

- Consumption: <0.25 Watts in Standby

General Information 

- Dimensions (WxHxD): 108 x 105 x 274 mm 

- Weight: 2,29 kg net / 5.69 lbs in shipping box