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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
agear
1,362 posts
 
Norman, specs are deceptive. Some panels (Audio Analysis) have bass extension into the 20s but it is perceived as thin due to the physics involved. The same holds true to the Ra apparently. Bob Clarke has measured into bass output into the 20s. Proof is in the pudding I guess....
wisnon
700 posts
 
T&F certainly has made even more pro measuremnts and put in on their website. I am sure all these speakers roll in the 20s but the SPL trails off dramatically, and hence the -6db at 40hz!

I have heard the RA, Pkharoah and Isis at shows and can tell you the bass otput of the Ra is really full range and clobbers the others.

Got my email yet?
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Lumenwhite are rear ported, unfortunately.

I will try to get to the Ra as soon as possible. He is not available until early September. I will hear the Avalon and Joseph Pearl 3 by then....

Also trying to hear a Salk SS8 or 10 as soon as I can.
agear
1,362 posts
 
08-04-15: Wisnon
T&F certainly has made even more pro measuremnts and put in on their website. I am sure all these speakers roll in the 20s but the SPL trails off dramatically, and hence the -6db at 40hz!

I have heard the RA, Pkharoah and Isis at shows and can tell you the bass otput of the Ra is really full range and clobbers the others.

Got my email yet?

For sure. I emailed Andreas about it as well, and he made similar statements to those that Bob made....

No email yet?
agear
1,362 posts
 
For the record, when we make recommendations to Matt as regards to speakers, we all need to remember his natural habitat and vernacular. When he says "bass," what he really means is something that will rattle the side panels of his El Calmino while cruising down the turnpike juiced up on malt liquor....
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