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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
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,853 posts
 
Mitch2 which version of the La Scala did you have Version 1 or Version 2? 


mitch2
4,109 posts
 
audiotroy, I auditioned the Aqua Hifi La Scala MKII, but not the recent Optologic version.

gibalok, my pre was custom made by SMc Audio - Steve McCormack, and is very close to his VRE-1.  It is a unity-gain, buffered preamp with the VRE-1 outboard choke power supply, a Shallco volume control with AN Tantalum resisters, and Lundahl output transformers that are wound with Cardas copper wire.

For more about the Metrum DACs, I suggest reading Srajan's 6moons reviews all the way through the March 2017 Adagio review and his comparison of that DAC to the COS, LaScala, and Formula DACs.
gibalok
17 posts
 
What about other dacs with pre
ayre? Rockna?
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,853 posts
 
Mitch2 thanks. The Aqua La Scala is exceptionally musical with big images and a warm rich punchy sound.

The Mk 2 Optilogic is supposed to extend the treble detail and increase the openess and sound staging while still retaining the overall superb quality of the La Scala. 

We are selling our Lascala to move to a Formula, so if you know of anyone looking for a great dac driven by a little old audiophile to listen to Gregorian chants on Sundays let me know.

Dave owner
Audio Doctor NJ
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Thanks Mitch2, great stuff right there. And thanks Dave, for always adding just the correct amount of dealer input and offer without overdoing it! It's great having enthusiasts, dealers and manufacturers all here to add and help this thread to progress and grow. 
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