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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
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,517 posts
 
Winson, I own a Aesthetix Romulus with/upgrades now and it has 4 tubes :-)

I like it better than the Lampi 4/4 I had, but it is not because the Romulus blew it away sonically. It is because I simply like the music better with the Romulus.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Wisnon - i didn't say I have "a strong bias to US made equipment."
I said that if I have to chose between two products that are similar in performance and both make me equally happy, that I would chose the USA made product.
I chose the Lampy for my shootout for the same reason you guys chose it, it has a well deserved stunning reputation. If the Lampy sounded BETTER to me then the Aeris, I would have chosen the Big6.

Boy, you guys are a tough crowd. Lol.
agear
1,362 posts
 
There are things one knows one knows; those that one knows one doesn't know; but most importantly there are those that one doesn't even know one doesn't know. I have come to be very hesitant to make assumptions when dealing with areas in that last category.

Kernelbob, you are obviously not a true audiophile. We fearlessly make decisions for ourselves and provide counsel to others despite the absence of knowledge....
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
I personally Respect what you have said between the Lampy and the Aeris dacs, As it turns out, Reading your last post, I feel the same way as you do!,I also believe you are making a wise decision based on all that you have said here, Bravo!
agear
1,362 posts
 
Another ripple in the equation to consider is mechanical grounding. I like Sistrum products but there are others out there to consider as well. Sistrum has a significant effect particularly on speakers, subs, and tubed gear...

Then there is electrical grounding and power conditioning. I find these all impact digital.
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