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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
 
I had already advised my neighbor to pursue a Rowland Corus preamp to sublimely mate with the Veritas and the Isis. He had emailed T&F directly to ask what solid state electronics they suggest and he was informed that T&F voice the speakers with Rowland gear, and occasionally Burmester and Crayon. So it seams the Veritas and Rowland combo will work as well as I suspected. If he wants to upgrade to the new 625 series 2 Rowland amps utilizing the NCore module later, or go for the 825, it's a natural progression and the Veritas is easily sellable. As I said, I prefer the Veritas over the Burmester on the Isis. I know of Crayon but have not heard them.

Heading down to listen now.
bill_k
920 posts
 
Matt - If I may correct you on one point, the Rowland 625 (which I own) as well as the series II version are Class A/B output amplifier designs, which do not use an nCore module. The 625 and 725 are their top level amps using a Class A/B output stage along with Rowland's custom SMPS. Their 825 and 925 amps do make use of the nCore output modules combined with Rowland's unique SMPS design.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Bill is correct.... Worth pointing out that M625 S2 and original, M725, M825, and M925 all make use of PFC rectifiers that feed high voltage DC current in the SMPS. Furthermore, it seems that M625 S2 is a substantial re-design under the hood... Sorry, I do not have too much detail yet, besides the use of ceramic boards, 4-pole caps... There is lots more detail.

G.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I stand corrected. I was told by a Rowland dealer yesterday that the 625 S2 now employs the Ncore. I was surprised but took it for gospel as it came from a dealer I trust. Looks like a nice unit either way.
aolmrd1241
1,042 posts
 
Hey Matt... I'm mating my Merrill Audio Veritas monos with a Primaluna Dialogue Premium line stage preamp and the combo is just plain awesome. Tell your buddy to look into the Primaluna...He wont regret it. A match made in audio heaven. Music just pours out...directly into your ears. No audiophile approved drinking glass needed.
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