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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
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Hi Matt, does MSB have a variety of upsampling and filter settings, or is it a "launch and forget" kind of DAC?

G.
paul79
174 posts
 
At $42K you are in Totaldac Twelve territory. Actually, you can get into the Twelve 4 box cheaper (Mono dac's, reclocker, and server/reclocker). THIS is the one man. Truly, the one. You won't get a demo without a full deposit though, but it may be worth your while.
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Having heard a quad DSD in German Physics room at the RMAF, I cannot imagine why anyone would want to be limited to 44.1.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Paul, its a matter of taste. We all will never agree.

I know of someone who sold a TD12 stack for something one third the price...
paul79
174 posts
 
Wisnon,

Guessing here, but a Lampi perhaps? It all really depends on what you are after for sure.
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