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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
mitch2
4,082 posts
 
Good points Matt.  The option for now seems to be running Ethernet from the music server into an endpoint that can output USB to the DAC.  I will try this in a couple of weeks when I get my DX back after the Gen3 upgrade.  Endpoint will be the SOtM trio.  I would like to try the DJM Electronics GigaFOILv4 fiber optic isolation filter on the Ethernet line but it does not seem to be available for purchase yet....their website says it is "currently undergoing regulatory review."  
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
I was looking at that also. My server will have the DAC installed, so I don't worry about this connection.  I just like this idea and hope it works out.  

We talk about introducing jitter on ethernet, but what about the ethernet connection from my Eero mesh router into my server?  Should I try optical isolation here or just a nice ethernet cable only?  Just curious what Steve and others think (Ketch???) 
mikelavigne
2,200 posts
 

currently i'm using the new MSB 'Roon capable' Ethernet Renderer on the MSB Select II, and then using the SGM server as the Roon host. i'm able to A/B that to the SGM with USB.

they are too close to call so far, with a very, very slight nod to the new Renderer.

there is a new 'Evo Spec' upgrade coming for the SGM server. when that happens i will see whether that upsets the stand off.

i've also run some optical cable in my conduit from my NAS to my audio room where the MSB and SGM are, so we will see how that might change things, as well as trying other Gigaswitches and linear power supplies.

at the top of the food chain, it's not yet clear where this is going.

mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
That’s awesome info! Thanks Mike. Keep us posted. 
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
We talk about introducing jitter on ethernet, but what about the ethernet connection from my Eero mesh router into my server?  Should I try optical isolation here or just a nice ethernet cable only?

The primary improvement seems to occur in the last connection of Ethernet before the DAC.  If your server is Ethernet driven, but S/PDIF or USB to the DAC, then good cables and isolator as well as upgraded LPS for the router will probably make a difference.  It makes a difference with my Sonos driving my Synchro-Mesh reclocker with S/PDIF.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

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