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
Hey Matt, if you make it to room 537 to hear the Kii Audio powered speakers I would enjoy hearing what you think of them, particularly after all the comparison listening you have done lately. There are several things that stand out, in addition to simply being powered speakers, such as how deep they are said to go for a standmount and how their use of drivers on four sides creates a controlled, cardioid dispersion pattern that reduces the negative effects of early reflections. I have linked an introduction below that explains it better than I can and also provides a link to their website. GTT Audio & Video is the new US Distributor and I believe may be hosting the room. Enjoy your time at RMAF.
Kii Audio
They are showing Perfect Storm (White ones, I think) with the BALANCED Lampi GG Dac and the Balanced 211 Lampi Monobloc amps. Antipodes Server and VeraStarcables. Rm 22024 and room treatment by Resolution Acoustics.

Ryan of vapor said that these Perfect Storm speakers are the finest speakers he has ever heard, and he admits to blowing his own trumpet, but says he does not care...
They are showing Perfect Storm (White ones, I think) with the BALANCED Lampi GG Dac and the Balanced 211 Lampi Monobloc amps. Antipodes Server and VeraStarcables. Rm 22024 and room treatment by Resolution Acoustics.

Ryan of vapor said that these Perfect Storm speakers are the finest speakers he has ever heard, and he admits to blowing his own trumpet, but says he does not care…

EDIT…Bruce Brown of Puget Sounds will also have a balanced GG in Room 8000. He will be using Abyss HPhones driven by Cavalli Gold headamp.