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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
pokey77
1,265 posts
 
@audioengr 

Hi Steve,

You mentioned the ODSX review. Can you point us to it? I couldn't find it doing a quick Google search and didn't see a link on your website either.

For those of you following along, Steve's DACs ARE special. I've heard them at least a few times at Newport and I still remember how amazingly clear and pristine the sound was, just beautiful. Not analytical in any way, but also not lacking in detail or air. If you get a chance, check his gear out. You will be very pleasantly astonished.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,464 posts
 
DSP in Roon is quite wonderful.  Just an FYI.  
jb0194
476 posts
 
A bit off topic, but I know Matt has been a client of Dave's at the Audio Doctor in Jersey City (audiotroy) and I wanted to publicly thank Dave for a most pleasant and informative phone conversation today. We discussed loudspeakers I was interested in, and Dave provided very honest evaluations of those he carries. I've read a lot of comments bashing the guy, but he really impressed me.

And now, back to our regularly scheduled programming...
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

You mentioned the ODSX review. Can you point us to it? I couldn't find it doing a quick Google search and didn't see a link on your website either.

It's here:

https://www.audiostream.com/content/empirical-audio-overdrive-sx-ethernet-dacpre

BTW, I figured out what was making the vocalist sound recessed for the reviewer.  It was Jriver.  I am using Minimserver and Linn Kinsky instead now and getting much better results.  Much more live, much better bass.  Minor negatives mentioned in the review are fixed.  I guess the DSP in Jriver is not that good.  It thought I had overcome the software issues with Ethernet, but evidently not.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Steve, try Fubar as well....

Minimserver and Fubar are a bit basic for my tastes but they are as bare boned regarding processing as they come. I have not used the Linn software so have no experience. 

I’m SO deep into my footer/shelf comparison I can’t think about trying different software now.  I am still waiting for Sam and Mark to play with HQPlayer and a few others to fine tune them for my Memory Player before I go that direction. 

Thanks for reporting! It’s always good to hear what software is working for people. 
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