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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
agear
1,362 posts
 
The Isis might work depending on room behavior/treatments and the use of mechanically grounded stands (Sistrum for example). The Ra could be a possibility as well....worth a listen.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Pharoah or the Ra maybe, but based on his room, Isis is OUT!

I cant recall if I heard the Ra (probably), but certainly the Isis and the Pharoah. Very good designers...Andreas is the one I have met several times.
agear
1,362 posts
 
07-20-15: Wisnon
Pharoah or the Ra maybe, but based on his room, Isis is OUT!

I cant recall if I heard the Ra (probably), but certainly the Isis and the Pharoah. Very good designers...Andreas is the one I have met several times.

I had a set of vintage high Pioneers with a similar driver size to the Isis on Sistrum apprentice stands and it did not overwhelm the room. Either way, Matt needs to hear them. He may not like them....
wisnon
700 posts
 
Again, I heard the ISIS in Zurich in a medium sized room. When Andreas saw me in the Warsaw show, he asked me what I thought and didnt seem surprised at my report.

There may be tweaks that could work, bit this was a pretty stylish room with Rowland electronics and other nice gear.
coli
291 posts
 
I just sold my DirectStream so it might be too early for me to start bashing it, but that DAC is my worst purchase ever. The thing doesn't sound bad, the real problem is the DAC sounds incorrect. I guess I was blinded by the high price and the reviews.
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