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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
Post removed 
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Thanks Lordcloud. Ive put a lot of effort into this thread. And we are lucky to have such great contributors!!!  

Some good stuff coming. Stay tuned. 👍🏻
joecasey
484 posts
 
Minus the ridiculous political diversions ...
+1 ... and I thought this is an audio forum.
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ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
All good guys.  All the politics get cleared up pretty quickly.  Yes, an amazing thread and now that Matt has the Davinci burning in and a few cool (expensive for many) servers, it will be interesting if the Aurender N10 can stay at the top of the heap.  It's not even the most expensive by miles, so it's already a great value/buy for the high end.  It's still on my personal short list if I can ever afford it, unless something better comes along.  

How many of you guys are waiting out the server war's that is about to start as you think the future will be MUCH brighter with advances in timing and lessening digital noise?
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