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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
reverendo
88 posts
 
I told you the DaVinci was special. The best I’ve ever heard, period. Still curious to compare it to the Gryphon Kalliope and the Audio Note DAC 4 or 5.
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt, I was so happy the other night when you shared your LH thoughts.  Very very cool.  I NEED to get over to hear that DAC.  Of all the expensive ones, I haven't heard the LH and need to.
jwm
918 posts
 
Matt Nope, I checked the old comments and you said you liked it for one day and then it disappeared off the radar. You never said anything else about it. You must have not been that impressed.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Jwm - 
1) apologies. I'll check my notes and post for you. I think I have them somewhere. 
2) wow, I'm impressed you checked though all those pages! I'm honored. 

I do remember that it was not well suited to my system. But the specifics of why escape me. It was the current iteration at the time. As I said, please don't take my opinion as gospel. I am one person with one opinion. I try to explain why I like or don't like something so you can use that. Remember that it's not ever really a review as much as a comparison. And until the DAC2X, which I am certain would be bested by the ODSX, and now the Light Harmonic, i have always preferred my ODSE (now ODSX). 
4425
861 posts
 
Haven’t really followed this massive thread but I can’t imagine not liking the Bricasti if that’s the case. Simply can’t imagine. It's a buy and forget piece and used direct it's breathtaking. 

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