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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
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Actually guys, about 95% of my listening is digital. Very little is vinyl. I love it and it's special to me, but Its just not as convenient as my computer and my Iphone. Sorry to disappoint.

I looked at Trenner. Their reference speaker requires 4 monoblocks or two stereo amps to drive. I can't imaging buying another two 911mk3's! Oy!
wisnon
700 posts
 
Chipless PCM is not possible. PCM is really digital, while DSD is quasi analog.

The bigger Trenners like the ISIS will overload Matt's room.

I am thinking that the Boenicke W8s, Rethm speakers, Albedo HL 2.2/Aptica, Kaiser Vivace or even the Klanwerk Ellas would be the right thing for his room. Personally for emotional involvement, he would do well to look at the Heil AMT Kithara with Bassplate, BUT its not a big looker and has low WAF. Thet giant Heil tweeter is bewitching though and goes down to 400hz and crossed at 650hz...28hz bass....and MUCH cheaper than most others in that league. Vince from Tricell in Canada is the contact for that.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt, I expect the Micro Two will be a killer:

http://www.evolutionacoustics.com/loudspeakers/microtwo/

I will ask around for pricing...
wisnon
700 posts
 
EA Micro Two:

They are hoping to keep them in the $8,000 range/pair. They are going to be approximately 42 inches tall.

This thing is long delkayed though...
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt, thanks for sharing that. I think most of us listen to a lot of digital and that's why we loved your thread to begin with. As you have said trying different speakers in your own home is different from smaller electronics, lol....I like how you think when looking at these components in that some have hidden costs (i.e. needing more electronics etc) that have to be taken into consideration. Too many great choices without having to go that route I would think too.
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