Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Have had the Berk Ref 2 in a few times as I wanted to like it and a dealer I like to purchase from when I can, carries it.  Just not as good to my ears as the Ayre and it's not even close to for me.  I know others here have had it in and said that it wasn't as good as the DAC's they were using like EA or Lampi and a few others.

Wisnon, I should be able to make it to Mike's on Sat as he has a Magico demo going on that day. I really look forward to meeting him of course.  Will be good to hear Magico's too as in the past I have not liked them.  I know they have changed their sound a bit and warmed it up, so I'm really looking forward to that.

Wise words from Wisnon. (Say that ten times fast, lol).

These are all excellent DAC’s. Taste, system, room will vary resulting in a market where everyone sells product and everyone is happy.

The N10 is borrowed and back in my room. I’m hoping to start some comparisons tomorrow.

Wisnon, the GG sounded great at the last show I heard it at. It’s impossible to constantly stay up on everything new that keeps coming out. But it’s fun to try! ;)

Matt, will you use the AES/EBU connection from the N10 when possible or just keep it all in the USB domain?  I noticed the N10 has ethernet for downloads, but no ethernet for connection to a DAC that can accept it like the Ayre or the EA.  I think for me, that's another possibly advantage of the Melco servers as well as the Music Vault servers (we NEED to get you one in your system and I NEED to get one into mine).  Richfield has been using his MV for years now and LOVES it.  I have heard it numerous times and feels it's outstanding and everyone can be built right into it, like Roon etc..  No a commercial as I've only spoken to Neil VB a few times when pricing one out and with questions.  I wonder why most folks don't talk about it much.  

Heading to Suncoast Audio on Saturday.  Mike has a Magico guy in and I'll get to hear one or two of the DAC's I'm sure.  Really looking forward to that visit.  As Winson said, he's a guy you want to visit if you live down this way as his product line is insane and he has Vandersteen's or Magicos and I think another major line.  That way you can surely find what you love.  Choices are just so important in audio.  Nothing beats auditioning at the same time.  That's why this thread is fun.  Matt and I heard a bit differently, but after getting to know him I know what the differences are and it's even more fun to read and hear what he has to say IRT all equipment.  Glad that we have this going again.

N10 sounds best with XLR output I think. Hoping for some time tomorrow morning to give a listen. 

@mattnshilp don't want to be OT, so I'll just make this quick. I started a thread on WBF where I describe my specific needs, taste, etc.
Currently this is what my shortlist looks like after some personal research and suggestions that I got through the thread. I was able to listen to the Endeavor MkII and the Revel Salon 2 as you will see on the thread. Former wasn't interesting, second was wonderful, but also very large.
VS Unifield 3 mkII
Endeavor Mk2
Heco Dreiklang
Salk Soundscape 8
Revel Salon 2
Thiel 3.7
Carmel 1
Kharma CE
Rockport Merak Sheritan
Raidho XT-3
TAD Evolution 1
Magico S3
Ayon
Audiovector SR
Hope me know if you want to talk speakers.
Best
Andre