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 just demoed the Merging Technologies Nadac in my system for a few days. It's an Ethernet based DAC and sounds amazing. Very smooth and detailed with outstanding dynamics, great bottom end and absolutely no typical etched digital sound. Very analog like. 

JH901,


See recent posts in the Lampi Atlantic thread here in the Audiogon Digital forum for more feedback.


Looks like digital is really coming of age. So many great products out or coming-out.  The irony is that some companies are offering outstanding products, but are working on ref gear that isn't even out yet.  It's almost the opposite of releasing your ref gear first and doing the trickle down effect.  Seems like companies are working out the bugs etc.. on moderately priced gear and then upping the ante.  We all win either way.
I listened to the Arye codex on my system.

Besides the codex being so hot you cannot touch it,  the yggy was far superior.  

I also did not need a DAC that also wears multiple hats.

The yggy is warm if left inside a cabinet by the codex is dangerously hot.  I was able to bring it home from the dealer for an in house demo.
Psickerson, 
There’s no better comparison between products than having both in your system side by side. I do recognize that all rendered opinions are subjective and only reflect individual taste. No question some will choose the Yggy rather than the Ayre. The converse is also true. You are fortunate to have a direct comparison.
Charles,