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

Good time to send the Overdrive in for an upgrade.  I recommend the simple one.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

Thanks Steve.  I forgot to get to the Fed EX to send teh SM in for the upgrade.  Been dealing with wife's back surgery the last few weeks.  
Any word on a TotalDac demo? You've been attempting to arrange one it seems forever.


So excited to get the Syncrho Mesh back.  Thanks for the upgrade Steve!!  Matt has been swamped at work the last few months.  I don't think the TotalDac is even there yet.  I know that he's getting to play with the Elrod and Enklein power cords though.  
Keithr- I can do the TotalDAC demo whenever I want. But I don’t want to start it until I know I can give it the time it deserves. And work has been crazy. It will come in time. I promise.