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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
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt. what a thread. LOVING it more and more. Ive met you and we are in touch and I am shocked at what was posted too. Retailers run their business the way they want to and you haven't strong armed anyone. What they probably want is to win the shoot out since there are so many hits on this thread. As you know, I'm totally with Jeff on this one and only time will tell. The rest of my thoughts will be off line with you, lol.
4orreal
91 posts
 
Matt,
One speakers that I have not heard but intrigues me are the Kudos Audio "Titan T808" speakers, and may be worth investigating. The port design on them is different, and are meant to not cause problems in rooms. I have read great things about the T88, the predecessor to the T808.

Good luck with your search.
jh901
67 posts
 
Matt- is YG Acoustics out of the mix due to one of your requirements or did you hear them and not enjoy (or otherwise find that they are not in the same league as others)?

Please consider adding a photo of your room once the acoustic treatment is done.

Regards, Josh
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt, Mattt, Matt.

The Trenner&Freidl Isis is way too much speaker for your room. Its great, but in your small room, the bass will have nowhere to go. It is not a small speaker.

I already told you that the bottom ported Heil Kithara is the way to go for you ust of emotional involvement. Midrange and high to die for and VERY decent bass going down to 28hz and refined by bass plate.

The other contender would be the Granite stone speakers for Fischer und Fischer ( built by Herr Mudra in Deutschland). Talk about cabinet rigidity...also the best ones use a Heil tweet.

For the Lawrence Double Bass, see what it sounds like with the Lite 7...you may be surprised...
agear
1,362 posts
 
The Isis might work depending on room behavior/treatments and the use of mechanically grounded stands (Sistrum for example). The Ra could be a possibility as well....worth a listen.
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