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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
wisnon
700 posts
 
Alex, I totally agree about the DSD, especially as I have Tbs worth and listen with this:
http://parttimeaudiophile.com/2014/07/04/lampizator-dsd-dac/
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
988 posts
 
Well, surprise, at over $50k, the Tinity DAC does not do DSD as well, just as intended by its designer.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Wisnon,
I heard the Trinity DAC and the Lampizator level 7 at CES earlier this year. They were in different rooms/systems but the Lampizator 7 (room) moved me more emotionally and was very involving. It'd be a thrill to compare them directly as the only variable in an otherwise identical system. They will likely appeal to two very different types of listeners.
Charles,
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
988 posts
 
Charles1dad,
Your observation is interesting.
When you say the Lampizator 7 moved you more emotionally, is it being a lot more musical than the Trinity, or is there something else?
Jon.
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Jon2020, I hate the characterization, 'musical' which really means good sounding but nothing close to real sounding. The Lampizator is musical but of no real interest to me. It doesn't sound real. But in my opinion neither does the Trinity and it is outrageously expensive.

I still say the inexpensive BMC PureDac is the best.
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