Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

This is what Delta Sigma/Mash did when it was first released back in 1990 and still does now to Redbook PCM conversion, it gives a facsimile of the real thing, where R2R Multibit is bit perfect.

I would have to disagree.  It's poor digital filtering that causes this, not Delta-Sigma.  My Delta-Sigma sounds a lot like an R2R.  My last DAC was an R2R.  My latest is Delta-Sigma. It beats my previous R2R.

Steve N .

Empirical Audio

Not all Class D should be described in this way

My strategy is a bit different, and I have attained audio nirvana I would argue. No personal attack here, just different.

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.

I am almost never impressed with the quality of the master clocks inside DACs. They are almost never good enough. This includes power delivery and associated dividers and buffers/selectors etc..

I would much prefer to sell to a customer that has a DAC with NO reclocking or jitter reduction, at least on the S/PDIF coax inputs.

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.

I would pick Wells Audio, Merrill Audio, D’agostino or get a good SET tube amp. I have been auditioning amps at shows for 20 years, as well as speakers.

3) Roll preamps and roll preamp tubes until you find the desired sound

I would eliminate the active preamp and drive direct from the DAC or use a passive transformer linestage. Preamps are the worst offenders for coloring/distorting sound quality. Just get rid of them unless they are $10K+ tube preamps.

I do agree on tube rolling. Critical step. Be prepared to spend some time and money and resell the rejects on ebay.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

I have not heard the Wells preamp yet.  I had planned to share a room at LA Audio show with him, but didn't work out. If you attend that show, you will hear it.  If not, look for show reports.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio