The best no-compromise digital options?

Interesting thread.

Best for my system so far has been an Esoteric UX-1 modified up to a UX-1Pi going into an APL modded DAC w/4 32-bit AKM chips and class A tubed output stage(E182cc Amperex tube from Holland). Lots of detail, depth and musicality but none of the glare or analytical character you might otherwise expect. Transport is the same as used in the P-01. Awaiting bigger, better AND shinier APL super-dac, before I try anything else....

Concerning computer based playback I completly agree with some of the posts above. I too think this has the best potential but I am not prepared to jump on that wagon just yet. I do not think that tchnology is mature yet. When a standard interface for transferring at least 24/192 between the computer and external audiophile DACs I will be ready too.

The Vitus SCD-010 should be on your demo list if possible, redbook cd (and Squeezebox Duet through digital in) is nothing short of incredible...

just a remark please,
dCS (any) is better to enter it also in CD format.
The ring dac is red book at first, of course dCS excells too in SACD.

As for dvd-a it's dead to invest so much money on a machine and the already dvd-a library is too small. On the contrary red book cds are millions and sacds almost 6000 and growing.

For me we should also add the ability of High resolution 24/96 files!!!

My votes for top cd/sacd is
dCS Scarlatti
Esoteric P03/d03/rbclock
dCS Paganini
Burmester 069
Spectral 4000 pro - dCS Puccini+Paganini master clock - latest Wadia.
Accuphase dp700
Meridian 808.2

Sorry no tubes in the source
no snake oil non-oversampling dacs.