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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
 
Anyone have any experience with the PMC MB2 SE, MB2 XBD SE or BB5 SE??
bill_k
936 posts
 
I haven't heard any of those PMC models, but they use a unique transmission line loading that generally loads the room well but differently than sealed or other vented designs. Should be worth your effort to try them in your room if given the opportunity.
agear
1,362 posts
 
PMC would be interesting.

Here is an all Goldmund system in Japan:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPpK-Hj7DPM
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt one more to broaden your horizons. I think its front ported:
http://www.foersteraudiotechnik.de/prod_fa73_en.htm
wisnon
700 posts
 
Gear, these are the ones I would love for Matt to hear and report back on. Useful refernce point.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eU4sEIpj5M

The Prologos Mk2 wireless, not the Prologos+ mk2.

The "normal" prologos is their most dynamic speaker and is capable of max spl of 120db. It has 2 Telos amps and Alize Dacs built into each box, and Proteus/Leonardo (DSP/DRC)software implemented.
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