heard the whole line of CH gear up in NH and I hated it. I don't love Wilson's to begin with, but they were the worst match up that's for sure.
I am loving the QX5. Have heard it a couple of times now and am waiting on mine. I did hear the optical conversion that we are all talking about in Tampa last week. It was only on the Codex using Audeze LCD 2's and the EL8's (not my favorite can, lol) and also my Noble Savant's (the most neutral IEM/can I've heard to date, but not a bass head IEM, lol) and the sound was outstanding. I was so impressed with this connection. It used a hand made LPS (not as good as Empirical's I'm sure) on the end switch and I was blown away at how quiet it was. It just sounded right.
I think that like anything else, ti's all about sending the best signal to the DAC or preamp. Matt started this thread with concern only about redbook. Of course we are all over the place, but it's still about finding out the top DAC (for Matt) for redbook. I feel strongly that the Ayre QX-5 needs to be put into the mix with Steven's new OSDX (based on the thoughts on one of you feeling it's the best DAC you've had in your system and you've had some of the best as well as most expensive). I think based on your hearing, there are probably only a select few that are the 'best sounding DAC for Redbook'.
My take away from this thread is:
1. Best Redbook DAC
2. Best server/streamer solution going into 'this' DAC
3. Best connection for the server/streamer
4. Best software for YOUR DAC/Server solution as all are different
What have I missed other than cabling and power cords and wood blocks as feet vs anything else as feet, lol.
