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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
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Looks like I'll be getting TMP/DAC back in a couple of weeks or so. I can't wait to get music again.  Sam is also going to help me mount my speakers on their new 3" granite plinths.  I had them glue the slabs with a special silicone glue for vibration purposes.  Let's see if they make a difference.  I have a feeling it will take them up a few notches.  I have a friend who has sworn by this.  Vandersteen uses this set up for him top model 7's.  Can't wait.
reverendo
88 posts
 
I kind of have lost track of this immense thread, but would appreciate some help.

I am looking for a DAC with full active preamp (or full active preamp with DAC). I see that the Mola Mola fits my description, but would like to ask you if you know of other options.

Just to be clear, I am not looking for digital or analogue volume control. I want a full active preamp to be part of the package.

Thanks in advance
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Hi. I have no true experience with the Mola Mola other then reputation; which is very good.

Is the analog source a secondary source or a primary source? Something you listen to occasionally? Or all the time?

i wouldn’t expect much from a true DAC with analog input option as far as true quality preamp. It would most likely be more of a convenience input.

Dacs in preamps and integrated amps are good and can compete favorably with other dacs up to $6-8k in high end product. But if your looking at higher priced standalone dacs there is not an internal DAC module that would compare.
reverendo
88 posts
 
Thanks @mattnshilp, I appreciate the input. My main interest is a full active line stage instead of a digital or analogue volume attenuator. Analogue inputs would be a secondary benefit, but not the main goal.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
So the Mola Mola Makua preamp has a DAC optional card. It’s a preamp with an optional DAC card. Its like $15k with the card. Their formal DAC doesn’t have analog inputs. 

There are several very good preamps with optional DAC cards. So there are several options.

I do not recommend using a DAC direct to amp. The only case I have ever heard it sound ok is the Bricasti and Rowland DAC’s straight to their own amps. Preset to higher gain and impedance matched. Other then that, I have never heard a scenario where the system doesn’t sound better with a preamp in the system.
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