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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

You mentioned the ODSX review. Can you point us to it? I couldn't find it doing a quick Google search and didn't see a link on your website either.

It's here:

https://www.audiostream.com/content/empirical-audio-overdrive-sx-ethernet-dacpre

BTW, I figured out what was making the vocalist sound recessed for the reviewer.  It was Jriver.  I am using Minimserver and Linn Kinsky instead now and getting much better results.  Much more live, much better bass.  Minor negatives mentioned in the review are fixed.  I guess the DSP in Jriver is not that good.  It thought I had overcome the software issues with Ethernet, but evidently not.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Steve, try Fubar as well....

Minimserver and Fubar are a bit basic for my tastes but they are as bare boned regarding processing as they come. I have not used the Linn software so have no experience. 

I’m SO deep into my footer/shelf comparison I can’t think about trying different software now.  I am still waiting for Sam and Mark to play with HQPlayer and a few others to fine tune them for my Memory Player before I go that direction. 

Thanks for reporting! It’s always good to hear what software is working for people. 
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

I tried Foobar on my Mac and could not get it to work.

Kinsky is a bit bare-bones, but if it gives the best SQ, that is what I’m after. Ease of use is secondary to me. That’s why all of my files are in .wav format.  Minimserver does allow one to change the displayed items and tags quite a bit.

Steve N.

denon1
349 posts
 

Matt, please update us on the foot/shelf comparison when you can. This is another important subject that worth to cover.

Thanks.

mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Steve - you and I are after the same thing. Best sound, period. I’ll try the other apps when I get a change. Curious to hear the differences. But I do want a nice user interface if I can have that as well, it makes searching my library much easier and more pleasant. I think many feel the same way.
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