1. A method for providing an input signal to a symbol decoder, the input signal being based on a tail value and a subset of coefficient values received from a decision feedback equalizer, the method comprising the operations of: (a) generating a set of pre-computed values in a multiple decision feedback equalizer, the pre-computed values being based on the subset of coefficient values; (b) combining each of the pre-computed values with the tail value to generate a tentative sample; and (c) selecting one of the tentative samples as the input signal to the symbol decoder.