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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
erikminer
433 posts
 
@Agear said:
He has had a longstanding love affair with Berkley as has the audio press. What has changed from a design and/or sonic standpoint?

I have no idea.. I haven't heard the new unit.. But the review in TAS was pretty through, as was the interview with the designers.. And what I found most interesting is how both reviews mentioned the big improvements in rebook playback..

In any case I surely don't have 16 Grand sitting around to drop on a Dac :-) so how good (or doesn't) it sounds is all academic for me
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Knghifi, Jon, Charles, Guido, thanks very much for your comments. And Erik, thanks for your inputs as well, about both the DAC and the tires.

JoeCasey, yes, I chose the "PDK" automatic. I'm a "purist" about some things to some degree, but not in this case :-)

As you may be aware, btw, the PDK is a seven-speed "dual clutch" automatic, which actually out-accelerates the manual version (at least if the package which includes "launch control" is opted for, which I did not get).

Best regards,
-- Al
erikminer
433 posts
 
I'd have got the PDK also.. if I was a player like you :-) And FYI the new Michelin Pilot Sport AS/3 all seasons are almost as good as most other brands pure summer only tires, of course a rear drive Porsche still sucks in the snow even with dedicated winter tires..
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
988 posts
 
Erikminer :

If I was Matt considering that at the beginning of this very long journey the original goal was: "Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD"
I'd "really" want to get a listen to the Berkley.. but that's just me.

+1
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Manual transmission is past history. Ferrari, Lambo, McLaren all don't even offer anything but paddle shifters. Even Porsche only offers PDK on the new 911 turbo. The human factor is the limiter to much faster 0-60 times. I had a 2007 911 turbo for years and it was manual. It was great but I never got close to the full performance out of it; it needed PDK. The cars speed and tech has superseded my ability to shift quickly enough. And I honestly like paddle shifting; it's like clutchless shifting, but I am still completely in control of when I shift, and what gears I shift into to. But then, in traffic, you can just pop it back into automatic and drive free and easy.

Yes the Berkeley is intriguing. I'm still trying to get a Romulus in as well. The list continues.
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