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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
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,491 posts
 
“I don't know how many of you have played with power cords. But they make a bigger difference than one would think.”

Absolutely! And you hit it on the nail “they make a bigger difference than one would think”! 

So sad that even most high end equipment has such poorly designed power supplies that special power cords become necessary! Myself I simply get rid of electronics that doesn’t work properly without these kind of band aids.
toetapaudio
474 posts
 
Absolutely agree about power chords making a big difference. The best by far that we have experienced are Sablon Reserva power cables with Furutech NCF plugs both ends. Hard wiring is even better.  Furutech NCF Boosters also make a positive contribution. DAC’s and digital sources benefit greatly. Try to avoid using UK plugs if possible no matter how well made they are. Schuko is preferable if you need to use a plug otherwise hot wire. Dedicated lines with a separate cu are a must imo. Balanced power is also beneficial.
toetapaudio
474 posts
 
Matt, thank you for your review of MP vs Baetis. I look forward to hearing about the comparison with the SMG in due course, I suspect much tougher opposition. It’s a pity fidata doesn’t have representation in USA at present because it’s a fine device and would be great to throw it in the mix as well.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
We used JRiver on both systems.

Matt - I don't understand why you would use Jriver.  Don't these servers have their own optimized playback software?

My own comparisons with USB of Jriver and Amarra always showed Amarra to be better anyway.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,910 posts
 
Does Amara have  a Windows version?

I think the memory player can only run Jriver.
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