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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
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Tdimler- I, once again, stand corrected. I did not go to Munich and obviously the Aurender guys keep tight lips until something is ready for distribution.

https://youtu.be/a_4NEfSlb_I

looks like a separate device dedicated to additional storage and CD ripping. Guido, it's custom made for what you were just asking for. Grins. 

I guess my questions about their "next" generation music server didn't warrant this as an answer. Lol
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 

THank you so much Matt, I played the Aurender video... I was not able to determine if ACS will be a stand-alone unit sporting ripper+storage+server, or will it be something that one needs to pair to a server like N10?


G.


mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Guido - it appeared to me to be an add on unit that would still require one of their formal server units. But I may be mistaken. 
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 

Thank you Matt, I also fear that ACS might be an add on for other music servers instead of an integrated server+storage+ripper, which is not what I am hoping. Eventually I would like to replace my trusty Esoteric X-01 with one single device to serve as an integrated server with mass storage and CD ripper.


Future will tell. I am hardly in a rush, and will happily wait for these types of devices to mature.

Guido



ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Look at the Music Vault if you want an all in one that sounds great.  He also will install lifetime Roon for you or let you move your license over.  He will custom build it and it is a great sounding unit.  Richfieldhunter uses one and loves it. I've heard it in a few systems and liked it.
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