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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
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Knghifi- the formula for Aqua is H2O. ;)

Haven't heard it. Guessing it will not be easy to acquire a demo though. Any dealers you know who I can contact?


mitch2
4,126 posts
 
Call Michael at Tweek Geek for Aqua.
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
mattnshiip, contact Tweek Geek.

Aqua Formula

Aqua Formula is Mike Lavigne's reference so gotta be good.  Right?  :-)
klh007
621 posts
 
I also believe the AQUA Formula, even the LaScala Optologic are top tier DACs, you can also contact Mark Sossa at Well Pleased A/V in VA who is the US Distributor.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Michael is now using the TotalDac unless he changed again in the last few months.  Matt, Brinkmann Nyquist is in this game too.  I was really impressed when i heard it two months ago.  Just outstanding.  If you need a Dave, call me.  Personally, I got the Ayre over the Dave as it has much deeper and tuneful bass for my ears.  I think the Ayre also has a bit better pace and rhythm.  Dave has a great mid range up, but the Ayre matches it for my money.  I personally don't love Rossini.  I've now heard it in 4 different systems and like all of the DCS DAC's, it's highly detailed and a bit dry.  No warmth at all.  It's a great piece, no doubt and many will swear by it because it's so detailed, but honestly, I hear great detail in most of the top DAC's we are talking about, but the Rossini to me is like a robot,....just can't warm up to it. I have a bunch of folks I speak with regularly who feel the same way.  I had the original one in my system for a week and I realized that I barely went up to listen to it.  
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