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
I think that with all the new digital being brought out in the past six months going into this summer, it will be changing the landscape.  I've yet to hear the Aethetix Romulus Eclipse but was told that it's a KILLER. Was told by a major manufacturer of speakers that the new Brinkmann Nyqvist is also a killer DAC.  Can't wait to hear first reviews of Steve's new unit.  
I found that DAC-preamp TacT RCS2 can be purchased bellow $1k. When it was first made, it was made for far future.

Hi. Sorry for the slow posting. My ODSE is still with Steve and my new Emm labs DA-2 is burning in. Will be done June 9th. I'll post impressions when burn in it done. 👍🏻

thanks for everyone's patience!!!

Hi Matt, I applaud giving the EMM DA-2 a thorough break-in before posting your impressions. How many hours in total are you planning to put on it before posting?


Saluti, G.