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
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Matt,

I followed Steve Nugent's lead and purchased a Plasmatron from VH Audio. I recommend the 3A over the 6A since you are only running digital sources.

Regardless of which you feel is best for your system, this will take it a leap forward towards your objective.
AudioL

5751 RCA black plates and Kevin Deal hand selected cryo treated Gold Loin, gold pin tubes. Both sound very good. Little less gain with the 5751, but that is a good thing for me.
Ketcham - cool. It's not in the budget right now, but I'll definitely reconsider it later. Thanks.

Hi all, sorry for the hiatus. Been crazy at work. Looks like everyone has been keeping themselves occupied here.

I've been working on my dedicated audio room design and have been auditioning some new amps to see how much better amps can get then my already incredible Merrill Veritas monoblocks. I have been ecstatic with the ODSE and have settling into my decision with conviction. With that said, I have Alex's modified DSD-S here and will finally have time tomorrow morning to give it a solid listen. I'll post results on Saturday. Steve is also working on both an upgrade for his ODSE as well as a higher level Overdrive, the Overdrive SX. When it's ready I will get a demo in and compare the two. Can't wait for that!!! For those interested, the SX will be DSD compatible.

For those going, I will be at the NY Audio show in Brooklyn tomorrow from 2-8pm. I'll have my iPhone on me to check, so if anyone is going then post on this thread and maybe we can hook up..

I with I had time to go to Rocky Mountain AF. That sounds like the one to go to!