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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
 

Paul - Signal transformers should not be  a problem.  You can always increase drive by reducing voltage with 2:1 ratio.


The XMOS interface I use is my Off-Ramp 6 prototype.  It passes 128 DSD.

Steve N.

audioengr
3,282 posts
 

ctsooner - MQA depends on the licensing.  IF its anything like MPEG, I cannot afford it.  Hopefully, the chips and licensing will be affordable for the little guys.

BTW, they say the big win is the impulse response, which has no pre and post ringing.  My Overdrive already does this ;>)

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

paul79
174 posts
 
Thanks Steve. So the Offramp 6 will do USB in and USB out?
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

Just like the OR5.  I2S, AES and S/PDIF out.


Steve N.

Empirical Audio

audioengr
3,282 posts
 

Richfield - the ground-loops are obvious in any system.  Testing to see if they are gone is simple, just unplug the AC cords and use an ohmmeter between the grounds.


Steve N.

Empirical Audio

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