I have a question about setting up a Tier 1 PBN network.

I have about 10 websites to use as Tier 1. These PBNs have a DR of around 10-30 and a DA of 20-50. While their DR isn't very high, they have authoritative do-follow links from sites like DA 80-90+ domains and reputable sources like the New York Times. Would such links still make these sites valuable enough to use as Tier 1? I've received about 10+ links from these authoritative sources.

Yes they would.

The main criteria for tier 1 is being clean and safe, power comes second.

Tier 2+ links are usually spam.

Yes, your websites are great for a Tier 1 PBN, especially with backlinks from high authority sites like the New York Times. Just make sure the 10 websites you plan to use have a clean history, as this is essential for Tier 1. The strong metrics you mentioned make them even better.

Yeah, for sure
You can definitely take advantage of that link juice