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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
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,830 posts
 
I will talk to him tomorrow, what is the rest of your system and where are you located?

I am sure we can arrange for a demo. You should call the shop.
reverendo
88 posts
 
the DaVinci is still the best one-box DAC I've heard until today. I also loved the full stack of the Scarlatti was incredible, but complicated. both are crazy money, but I haven't heard better. Still want to listen an AudioAero LaSource and Gryphon Kalliope.
reverendo
88 posts
 
oh, and Orpheus is really interesting, too. just a couple of contenders there.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,830 posts
 
I agree Reverendo,  the MK II Davinci is even better than the Mark One almost impossible to hear as the owner of Light Harmonic is personally upgrading each unit himself so the likely hood is what you heard was a MK I Dual Dac

The Mark II Dual Dac expands on everything in the MK I and adds 768k and DSD 512.

We are feeding our Davinci with a Baetis Reference computer and the sound is to die for, extremely analog with tremendous air and depth.

If you are ever in our neck of the woods love for you to hear our setup.

Troy
Audio Doctor
877 428 2873




wisnon
700 posts
 

CStooner, i hope you had a great time at SunCoast! Are you in the pictures Mike posted?


Matt, to avoid OCD, maybe you would want to check out the Lampi Golden Atlantic instead? Only the recti can be rolled and well, the Kron 5u4g and the EML 274B are the best normal tubes and the Tak 274b or WE vintage 274b are he absolute champs but like $1K each.

The GA also is a smaller form factor.

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