Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Grannyring,
Thank you for your kind words. In this most joyous of hobbies, there is no need for unpleasant debates. It is simply a matter of whatever that is music to one's ears. If we listen less for pleasure than worry more about what "should be" - then the whole point of this hobby is somewhat lost along the way.
Btw, congrats on the very recent completion of your current set-up. Sounds awesome!

I agree completely with Jon2020.... At about 200/250 hours, K-01 starts becoming a very enjoyable machine... Just be aware that... "You ain't heard nopn'" yet.... There is likely to be even better to come for a spell. So, if you are not yet in rapture at this point, be patient and postpone panicking and placing an Agon ad for a while.

On the other hand, if panic / buyer's remorse could not be avoided, Do not worry about it.... Some lucky adoptive parent will pick up the "little" beauty and love its music on your behalf.

Concerning filter/upsampling settings.... I felt in my own system that 4X + S_dly2 offered a balance of resolution versus musicality that suited me. On the other hand, I might not have broken in the DSD engine to completion. Besides... A personal preference is exactly that... A personal, and often temporary matter.

Bottomline, K-01 is an amazingly flexible tool... It can deliver enjoyment to many, but not to all, within a variable amount of break-in time... Let us leave "Beliefs" and the pursuit of absolutes where they belong.

G.

I've been very pleased with my Playback Design DAC 5, has external usb conversion box, lot's of inputs. I use it for my hi res computer system, my Qsonix server via digital AES, and my Oppo 105 via digital RCA. it up samples to DSD, or 2xDSD, and makes whatever source I use sound great. It's been a reliable rock, and I've experienced outstanding customer service and guidance on all things DSD and JRiver from both my local sales team of Ed, as well as Jon Tinn himself. Can't ask for more than that. It has stood the test of time in my rig. Just my opinion of course, and with the synergy of my system.
Fun to reach for the stars....

AudioL, you missed the simple point. Jon2020 and I and others are not saying it does not change beyond 200 hours. I suppose gear changes it's whole life the older it gets! No kidding. The point is not to go OCD on hearing the parts age!

Matt, I presume the OSDE will be DSD capable soon. Listening to DSD through the L7 is a wonder....