2. digital
  3. 1398132150

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
jwm
918 posts
 
Dealers can no longer afford to carry anything if you and everyone keep buying used on the Gon. Just saying.
fossda
112 posts
 
dcs could be an option at your price. also esoteric, emm labs and I have heard the moon 780d dac/streamer which is very good, new chord dave excellent. lots of very good choices for you at the price point you are looking. really like what I read about the ps audio but dealer friend believes moon for example has much better output stage/sound. good luck
jh901
67 posts
 
Matt- why have you ruled out Playback Designs Merlot DAC?  Have Andreas Koch's products fallen behind or is the price for performance not in line with today's market?
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
jwm, what your post for me?  If so, I buy at dealers nearly all the time.  Every now and then I will purchase used when I know who has the products I want and can't afford otherwise.  I fully support local dealers.  I do agree that the used market has really hurt the dealer networks.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
The review on Audio Stream today is a must read folks.  All about some of the posters here using optical runs, converters etc....  Had a great convo with Steve tonight and can't wait for some of you guys to start getting thoughts to keyboard on the ODSX run in ethernet mode.  Matt must be drooling about now waiting for his, lol....
More to discover