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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
 
So right. No more Absolute top their DAC thread, lol. Full system search.
paul79
174 posts
 
The Joseph's ended my search. With his infinite slope, he takes full advantage of the metal cones strengths, without their break up/ringing characteristics they have a problem with outside their passband. Speed like an electrostatic with insanely real dynamic contrasting.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
hi paul, Joseph are very fine speakers... Heard them several times.... Last driven by the Rowland M825, and the result was exceptionally involving.

please explain... "problem with outside their passband"

Regards, G.
almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Guido, I think he's saying that the "infinite slope" crossovers prevent the metal cones from being exposed to frequencies they can't handle without breakup and/or ringing. While a more conventional lower order crossover would provide a much lesser degree of filtering of frequencies that are outside of the range the drivers can handle in an optimal manner.

I have no specific knowledge of Joseph speakers, but that is how I would interpret the statement.

Best regards,
-- Al
bill_k
915 posts
 
Al is correct as usual! While Joseph Audio speakers do not actually use the original 'infinite slope' crossover design that they use to, they still incorporate a very steep slope crossover filter design which sounds even better. As such the crossover prevents frequencies in the breakup regions of the drivers from being excited. So they benefit from the speed and articulation of the drivers used while avoiding their potential shortcomings. The Pearls are a true full range design that have a seamless presentation with superb imaging. Most people are shocked at how good they are when they first hear them.
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