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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
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Branislav, it must be different strokes for different folks. I went to that room and turned around and left.
branislav
405 posts
 
I wish I could have been there. Maybe I would have done the same, who knows :-). I'm coming next year for sure...
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Branislav, I had a very good RMAF, but attendance seemed down. It is far and away the best show in my opinion.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Tbg- which room did you turn around and leave?
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Melbguy- the Vitas gear is still on that short list of true uber dacs.
Vitus, DCS, MSB, CH Precision, Trinity, Emm Labs new just introduced DA-2, and some would put the Berkeley Reference DAC and the Lampy Golden Gate in that list....

At that list level it truly becomes personal preference and system integration.

Are you using Vitus amps and preamp as well?
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