Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

@beewax 

+1 I agree. My strategy if I were to try to put some methodology to the task would be to

1) go for the most jitter immune, cleanest,  lowest distortion and highest SNR DAC available. This would obviously be a new DAC within the last year or two. It might be too lean and analytical for the desired goal of “musicality” and engagement tie tapping but you start with the bare truth and a reference signal.
2) Get the most resolving SS power amp - Benchmark ABH2 looks impressive. Again the power amp should be powerful and transparent - a Bryston, Pass Labs, Krell - there are plenty of choices.
3)  Roll preamps and roll preamp tubes until you find the desired sound. 

I think the strategy of using using every component (DAC, Preamp and power amp) to ALL create or add musical warmth is a never ending uncontrolled dog’s breakfast. 

Another alternative would be to stick with one manufacturer - go all ARC for example - at least there is a good chance that the equipment has synergy to begin with,

+1 @beewax   


I agree. I would suggest to use the cleanest high performance DAC I could find for the most resolving line level source signal and then use a tube preamp and roll tubes to taste for the musical taste. This approach is much more flexible. Buying a DAC with tubes built in is kind of limiting or restricting yourself...

@toetapaudio 

Not all Class D should be described in this way

My comments were limited to "the Class D amplification I have owned"  or specifically, a pair of monos using Ncore NC1200 modules and matching SMPS.