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

check out Artesania.

http://www.artesaniaaudio.com/

these racks are very impressive. do a little research on this rack system. other racks might look a bit more like furniture; Artesania is all business. the Artesania decouples on a level beyond those higher priced racks. if I was not buying a 520 pound turntable, and did not already own active isolation, I would absolutely own Artesania.

I would never consider dropping $20k-$40k on racks that I could never sell. you better want to be buried with an expensive rack because you will own it forever. not that they don’t work, but how long will they be relevant and current tech?

i use footers made in Korea called ’Hardpoint Trinia’. they ’float’ and i’m very impressed by their performance in my system, i have 5 sets of them. they are not cheap, but when compared to expensive racks they become cheap relatively. under my 3 box MSB Select II these footers are phenomenal. they work perfect with my Adona rack or directly on a hard floor.

 and using a modestly priced Adona and footers means I can consider changing if better tech comes along and it's all sellable and shippable without losing an arm and a leg.
Modulum is using a very novel idea of using a moving damper that is designed to flex and absorb energy the Tenor guys are raving over them.

Dave Lalin
Audio Doctor NJ
Mike L.  - email sent.

Dave - text to be sent tomorrow. Let’s hook up and compare those usb cables. And maybe the Baetis to the MP64. 👍🏻