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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
wisnon
700 posts
 

Matt, it only took you 2+ years with some reminders along the way. LoL:

wisnon


667 posts02-09-2015 2:28pm
  • Matt,

    AL wants the Lumin with ANALOG volume control.

    I agree that Devialet with AIR streaming built in is the most "one box" solution out there as it even has power amps at the end. Streamer/Dac/Integrated amp all in one box. Very attractive bling box too.

    Matt, what no Laufer teknik MEMORY Player?
    http://www.thememoryplayer.net/

AND

wisnon
  • 04-03-2017 5:58pm

667 posts

Matt, Cstooner have you guys tried the very affordably priced MemoryPlayer Mini...2500 to 3500 dollars?

AND

wisnon

667 posts   04-14-2017 9:12pm
  • Yes Matt, Ethernet is also packetized data.

    Why not try a Lauferteknik Memory Player? It has a LOT of software innovations and the newly released MP MINI is only $3500 with 2TB of defractionalized SSD memory. The big brothers with built in dacs are over $20K.

    I will reach out to the Lampi guys and see if they cant get you a demo GA after Axpona. the Pentodes are not swappable, so little chance of OCD for you. LoL


wisnon
667 posts   05-10-2017 1:27pm

Also for Matt:

"https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/laufer-teknik-memory-player-64-i-ve-finally-found-what-i-ve-b...;

Check it out.

and

wisnon


667 posts

Matt,
Though I have not heard it, the MEMORY PLAYER BY MARK PORZILLI is the only one with proprietary tech.

Its the one that has the potential to be VERY different. Nothing me too about it.


mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Hey Wisnon-  I remembered someone talked about the Memory Player. I forgot it was you. If Mark Porzilli is the Mark that Sam keeps referring to than yes, and the guy is a freakin genius!! 
wisnon
700 posts
 

Yes, he is! A pal of mine met him for drinks offsite at the last RMAF. Mark is not "people friendly"...Genius always has a flaw somewhere. LoL

Before Sam Laufer bought it out, it was called the Nova Physics Memory Player.

I was told about him and his genius by a genius audio designer that I know very well.

Glad you finally looked into it. I know I have your email addy, but cant recall if I have your number. I will look see and give you a quick buzz if I find it.

mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Looking for opinions.....

I’m considering upgrading my rack. I currently have an Adona that is very good. But the top tier is in a different class. 

Narrowed down to 3 options:

HRS - VXR rack with M3X platforms
Critical Mass - Olympus V-12 
Symposium - Osiris with Copper rails 

I have no doubt that all 3 are exceptional. And that all 3 will sound amazing. But a Rack is the one thing that’s essentially impossible to audition. So I need to pick and buy without an audition. 

The HRS and Critical Mass are twice as expensive as the Symposium. But I’m not convinced that Symposium is subsequently 1/2 as good. In fact, I’m very impressed by his design and approach. But HRS and Critical Mass have SUCH strong reputations as the best of the best. 

All opinions welcome!!! 
wisnon
700 posts
 

Hi Matt,


I just sent you an email...

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