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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
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Tbg,
Vocabulary is a problem when discussing audio. Your use of the term musical is much different from mine. In my use it's a major compliment and means it's natural,conveys realism and allows emotional involvement. Tbg everyone reading this thread has personal favorites, that's why so many brands exist.I enjoy discussing what I've heard and exchanging opinions with others, but nothing is ever the best for everyone.It's all the variables that make this an interesting hobby.
Charles,
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Charles1dad, I agree on both counts. Vocabulary for what we hear is worthless. Audio postings should be musical sounds not words. I also agree that everyone has their own opinions about what they seek. There will never be anything close to a consensus. This is why I can see that Matt is helped by this effort on his part, but that I had very little interest.
f1a
198 posts
 
Yeah, I'm with Alex on this one...

$16 freaking thousand and no DSD???

Buyers, DO give your heads a firm shaking
aplhifi-usa
38 posts
 
Tbg,

I still say the inexpensive BMC PureDac is the best.

Though it is clear that the BMC is another Chinese-made product judging by the way it is built internally, I would agree with you that it packs unique technologies, unlike some "name brands". And I respect that.

I've met Clement Perry and Key Kim at the Munich show this year and promised them a DSD-S review sample. I am not sure when this will happen, but it will for sure. Promise is a promise.

So maybe you can get to listen to it as well, and let us know how you feel about it.

Best,
Alex Peychev
APL Hi-Fi
himiguel's avatar
himiguel
152 posts
 
Charles 1 dad, I agree that the Trinity sounded clinical and sterile at CES, but on same token I've heard it sound quite engaging in another system in Hong Kong. Not as relaxed, warm or fIuid as the Trinity phono. I believe that the synergy of components as a whole is what makes or break a component. I also agree with Tbg findings on the L7 dac. I did hear some positive attributes of communicating the musical message at CES from the L7. Such a fine line between speed, detail, musicality.
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