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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
agear
1,362 posts
 
Matt, what specific DSD have you heard to date? Is it only the upsampling entities such as the Meitner or Directstream? Looks like you still need to hear the Aesthetix piece.

Also, next Saturday I'm picking up a 2013 Porsche Boxster S PDK/sport chrono pack/active suspension management & torque vectoring. Got it certified pre-owned for a steal!

I am sure your wife will be thrilled....;/
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Thankyou grannyring, cheers.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
AGear. Not sure what your deal is with the persistent commentary about my wife, but she had no problem with the car. Her issue is in regards to having a big ugly stereo and acoustic treatments in our office.

And I have not heard a lot of DSD at this time. Although the DSD library is growing, it's not extensive for my tastes yet.
bander's avatar
bander
504 posts
 
Yes really gentlemen, comments re Mattnshilp's wife are inappropriate at best. Those who post such comments clearly don't get. Let it be a learning experience for you.'Wife' comments are sexist, and disrespectful. I'll stop here.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
My impression is that Agear's comments are tongue in cheek and are meant to be light hearted fun. Many participants on this site often refer to their wives (and for legitimate reasons). Their input does sometimes impose "limits" on what an audiophile husband can do in regard to spending budget and imposition of the audio system in a shared/room/space. That's the simple reality of compromise for many adults who Co habitat. How this common fact can be considered sexist or disrespectful is political correctness gone over the edge. Men and women both have to give (and take) in a happy long term relationship.
Charles,
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