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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
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
I got my Synchro Mesh sent out to me within a day or two.  I also really liked it, but need to sell it as I am no longer in need with my system changes.  I guess sometimes things happen.  Sorry Ozzy.  
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
mikelavigne
MSB Select II is on another level to my ears. and i’m not alone with that conclusion. what i do directly compare the Select II to is my vinyl and RTR tape, as well as other recent digital units in my system.

Hi Mike, totally with you.
Many many months ago I tried to point the way here, for what the title of this thread is, for the "best dac for Redbook" (which is pcm) replay, you need to go to properly implemented R2R Multibit based dacs, not Delta Sigma based ones as ESS ect.
But I got but I got castigated for saying this by some, so I gave up. I wish you all the luck in the world, trying to get them to turn around so they see the forest through the trees..

Cheers George
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
George, why in the world would you make such a statement?  There are many DAC's of all designs that sound outstanding.  I've owned both types and like them.  There are plenty of great designs right now from many manufacturer's.  
jwm
918 posts
 
My Bricasti delta sigma beat the pants off the total dac’s discrete d/a converter chips.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I agree with CTSooner. And I said the same thing the last time this was brought up. I don’t believe that a certain type of chip is required to make good sound. It’s all in the implementation of that chip. That said, if an R2R is properly implemented it will typically make great sound. But I have heard good non R2R beat meh R2R dacs. It’s how you use it, not just what parts are installed. 
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