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....As a dealer...are you saying with the knowledge in concern of Light Harmonic that you still give full credence to that company in a complete and whole manner? Even to the point of making the perspective buyer of such a product whole again if the need arises? In other words...are you putting your money where your mouth is?
For those who want to understand MQA and Tidal integration a bit better, I found this. It’s excellent.

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/2017/01/mqa-tidal-where-are-we-now/

Enjoy.

Im staying away from the Light Harmonic discussion right now. If/When my product is delivered and no issues arise I will post my experience. I can say that as of now Dave the Audio Doctor had been supportive and communicative (and I believe he would do what needed to be done to make things right if a major issue were to arise, because he has shown me nothing but sincerity, passion for gear and music, and active support). 

CT- your a Vandersteen and Ayre fanboy! 😂😂 
Matt, we've spoken so much about it all.  Yes, IR a fanboy for all the reasons stated that don't even deal with my feeling that for the price the SQ is the best for ME.  They just stand by their products even out of warranty if needed.  I love that about any company ;).

Aolmrd brings up a serious point.  I'm sure they will make you happy Matt, but there is a lot of money involved.  How many folks could they take care of if problems arise and the company is gone or won't stand behind the products.  It's scary for any of us when purchasing an expensive product.  That's one reason I don't buy used that much anymore.  Been burned a couple of times already.  Thankful that companies like Aesthetix and Empirical have stood behind their gear, but it's expensive lessons we all learn.
Accurate Reproduction of Music has nothing to do with something that is emotioonally engaging, just saying. If you want super Acurate sound why not setup a Studio monitor instead since they are built for accuracy.

True Dragon_Vibe. Accuracy is an objective measurement. That's what we have JA for. Lol. 

Emotional engagement is as subjective as it comes. 

I always find it fascinating to see how different listeners listen for different things to hit their emotional target. Imaging, soundstage, leading edge, trailing edge, dynamics, scale, noise floor, subtlety, low frequency extension, etc etc. We all want it all, but one or two things in particular hit that personal spot and make us sink into nirvana. 

I just love this hobby! And the people who share it with me!