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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
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
What?
limniscate
241 posts
 
Well, I have a Chord Dave now, and my initial impressions are that I like the Yggy better.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Just proves that different ears in different rooms listening to different equipment hear different things.

There are those that consider the DAVE revolutionary! I have one in my room right now. My initial impressions will be posted shortly.

I’m glad you found a DAC you are happy with Limbiscate! That’s awesome.

If I may, "better" is a decision. To the readers a decision is good to know, but WHY is useful to everyone. So please give us the sound qualities of both, pros, cons, and what led you to your decision. Then we can all have a reference point to compare to something everyone may be familiar with 
limniscate
241 posts
 
I’m using AES through a Singxer SU-1 with a Transparent Reference cable from a Sonore Microrendu with Curious USB cable.  Microrendu is powered by an Uptone LPS-1.

Shunyata Zitron Python XLR from DACs to preamp.

ARC Ref5SE is the preamp with a Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme Blue power cable. Sanders Magtech amp with Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme Blue power cable to Magnepan 3.7i with Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme speaker cables.

The Dave seems a little harsher than the Yggy. The Yggy sounds slightly more natural. However, it may edge it out in resolution by a hair.

I need to test the Dave with the HiFilter on.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,468 posts
 
I own the Ayre C5......no need for anything else.  Great
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