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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
limniscate
241 posts
 
I’m using AES through a Singxer SU-1 with a Transparent Reference cable from a Sonore Microrendu with Curious USB cable.  Microrendu is powered by an Uptone LPS-1.

Shunyata Zitron Python XLR from DACs to preamp.

ARC Ref5SE is the preamp with a Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme Blue power cable. Sanders Magtech amp with Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme Blue power cable to Magnepan 3.7i with Cerious Technologies Graphene Extreme speaker cables.

The Dave seems a little harsher than the Yggy. The Yggy sounds slightly more natural. However, it may edge it out in resolution by a hair.

I need to test the Dave with the HiFilter on.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,470 posts
 
I own the Ayre C5......no need for anything else.  Great
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Intersting.  As much as the Dave isn't my taste, I have never found it harsh. If anything, it's the polar opposite to me as well as anyone else I've ever spoken with who has heard one.  Very interesting.  As much as you love your Yggy, it's honestly not in the same league as these other DACs that Matt and others are discussing.  Feel free to bring it over to my house and we can spend the day listening to the QX5/20 and the Yggy.  
mmrkaic
33 posts
 
Benchmark Media DAC3. Nothing comes close.
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
which others have you done listening tests of the Benchmark Media DAC3 against?

I like the price & features...
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