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Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Hi All.

Putting together a reference level system.
My Source is predominantly standard 16/44 played from a MacMini using iTunes and Amarra. Some of my music is purchased from iTunes and the rest is ripped from standard CD's.
For my tastes in music, my high def catalogues are still limited; so Redbook 16/44 will be my primary source for quite some time.

I'm not spending DCS or MSB money. But $15-20k retail is not out of the question.

Upsampling vs non-upsampling?
USB input vs SPDIF?

All opinions welcome.

And I know I need to hear them, but getting these ultra $$$ DAC's into your house for an audition ain't easy.

Looking for musical, emotional, engaging, accurate , with great dimension. Not looking for analytical and sterile.
mattnshilp

Showing 3 responses by nglazer

nglazer
846 posts
 
I doubt you can do better and anything near its price than the PS Audio Direct Stream DAC. Mine is just burning in and it is, in a word, breathtaking. This from a listener who started on digital with the Magnavox CDB 650, first 16 bit player, back in 1986. Just one man's opinion, but there are few components I have found so impressive.

Neal
nglazer
846 posts
 
Shame on me! I must have missed it among the flying insults, which I eschew like Pandora and Spotify (except to sample new music). Still, I think it is an amazing machine, and you know what they used to say in the Roman Forum: De gustibus non est disputandum!

Neal
nglazer
846 posts
 
Bander,

I suggest an even broader rule; no comments from any manufacturer touting his/her own products. That's what ads are for. If people like Audioengineer want to share their technical insights, those are welcome, but mfr/members should not use this forum as a marketplace.

One man's opinion.

Neal
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