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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

JWM - did you get to hear the Meridian MQA demo at CES?

As for eliminating my ground-loops, here are the three tactics I use to break them:

From server to USB interface - I use a XMOS interface with galvanic isolation

From USB interface to Overdrive DAC - The transformer on my DAC S/PDIF input takes care of this one

From DAC to monoblock tube amps - I use my Final Drive line-level transformer and selector - also converts balanced to single-ended

This eliminates all ground-loops in the system. I can put my ear up against my tweeter and nothing, even at full volume. Every component has earth ground.  I never had any hum, but there was RF noise that is insidious.  Don't know you have it until it is gone.


BTW, tube gear that is not earth-grounded is dangerous IMO.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

jwm
918 posts
 
Steve I did not and I also did not go to the Mirage, Hard Rock or any other hotel that was not part of CES.
jwm
918 posts
 
Every time I add a new component to my system I have to change something to get rid of the ground loop hum.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Steve I got to hear MQA earlier in the year when their reps were showing it off to a local dealer. I just happened to be there. I was floored by the open and relaxed sound I heard. I personally don't like Meridian speakers, but it was the first time I liked them.  Will you be joining the MQA companies?  They told us that the more MQA components you have in your system the better it gets. I don't know if that's hype or what.  Eventually they'll have studio's joining them, but if a server has it, then will it work it's best with the Overdrive lets say?    I know this thread will stay on grounding for a spell, but you brought up the MQA question  and I've been wondering about a few things after hearing it, so I thought I'd ask. Thanks.
paul79
174 posts
 
Hey Steve,

Ya, I get that all should be earthed, but my DAC and Preamp will not run signal transformers very well. Neither have a ton of drive, but they sure sound AWESOME. It has 2 short interconnect paths to ground.  :) Could I transformer couple the AC Ground of the preamp?

Steve. What is this component exactly?
"From server to USB interface - I use a XMOS interface with galvanic isolation"

Give it up man. Don't bogard every secret! lol Also, is it bit perfect? Pass DSD, High Resolution, etc?
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