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
Quick Magico Qpod evaluation:

Under the Memory Player, the HRS Nimbus gives a better sense of dynamic presence and tightens the imaging. Makes the music more engaging with a better sense of pace and rhythm. That sheet metal case of the MP definitely enjoys the rubber! I have yet to try the Symposium Ultra shelf and rollerblocks under the MP yet though. I’m REALLY curious!!! It’s hard to move that stuff alone, but I’ve got to do that!!

I love the form factor of the Qpod.

I’d put the Qpods with the Stillpoint Ultra 5’s, Vortex and Ansuz Darkz. All excellent. Can’t really go wrong with any of them. They will all have a subtle voice of their own. I need to get them under the DAC to identify that voice though.

I’m still not certain that the Qpods are balanced and smooth through the full frequency spectrum. I think they may highlight mids and highs a tad. Await further testing and I need some other ears to confirm what I have heard thus far.
outstanding stuff.  Yes, that plinth of theirs needs to be used on other top products.  it's not the most difficult thing to have something like that milled and at least offer it for sale, lol....Pretty cool though.
Have you thought about creating an insulated room suspended from a crane so it's decoupled from the earth?
Nitewulf- I was thinking zero G actually. But I get nauseous.... 😜

i did consider moving my rack out of the room to be honest. That’s ideal. 
Matt, what was that convo we had about this last week?/?? LMAO....;)....I wasn't kidding when I said that was the best sound isolation I've ever heard and it was 100% vinyl.  It made the world of difference.  They were outstanding rooms too of course.