Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Aolmrd1241 - an excellent question. The answer is, about 85% red book and 15% high res. But if it makes red book sound good then hi-Rez is wow!!!!

wardl - I agree and disagree with your last statement. Many many audiophiles don't have access to local stores and shows, and don't have the funds to buy and try and sell at a loss. I have come upon and interacted with MANY who use this thread as one of a varied number of resources upon which a decision is made to make a purchase; DAC's, speakers, or otherwise. I'm always happy to offer off thread opinions and advise. For some, listening to a certain high ticket item is practically impossible and by using this thread, other forums, and reviews from their personal trusted reviewer they make purchases they are subsequently VERY happy with. 

Wardl, sorry to have upset you over my post.  As I always say we all hear differently and I trust what I hear when I audition.  I've been doing it for a long long time as have many others.  As Matt said, it's hard to go off of reviews.  I know things about reviews and reviewers that would make many laugh or cringe.  It's a reality in audio good or bad.  There are a few reviewers I do like and respect.  That said, how many not so hot reviews have we all read on products?  Are there that many great products on the market?  Maybe. 

BTW, did you read my last statement?  I try and always put that in when I am not as positive about a product as reviewers or fans of a product.  We all hear differently. 

So Matt, I see a DaVinci mk 1 on Audiogon for only 15k.  Wow.

I'm not upset, dude.  It's audio gear.  Not something I would get upset over.  But I see no reason to give credence to vague statements (teenager? Does a couple of things well?) that don't square up with those of very experienced listeners I know and trust, not to mention my own and the general consensus of experts around the globe.  Leads me to question the foundation (i.e. accuracy) of said opinions.  Also, if you have truly been looking for a refererence red book DAC for 3 years and can't find one, that is truly bizarre.  There are many good ones out there.  

Wardl - never said I didn't find a "good one". I've been enjoying my Empirical Audio OverDrive SE (and now my upgraded SX) pretty much kick ass and take names for almost that entire time. It's truly THAT good!!!!!! But I'm looking for the best! I thought the Emm DA2 was going to be it, and it wasn't. The Davinci Light Harmonic 2 (auditioned the LH #1) was sublime. Same voicing and tonal balance of my ODSX but just better in every way. 

I can list 10 "good" DAC's !  But I'm looking for the ultimate reference (in my system)! 😜