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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
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,274 posts
 
MSB Analog DAC is below your budget and should be considered a must-audition. Also: Bricasti M1, Meitner and EMM offerings.

The problem with DACs is that the field continues to evolve rapidly and whatever you choose is likely to depreciate precipitously. Compared to most other component categories, it's hard to choose a DAC for the long haul and have it hold up.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The best tubeDAC available IMO is probably the Killer DAC from Australia. Put Siemens CCA grey-plate tubes in it and drive it with an Off-Ramp 5, fully optioned.

As for best SS DAC, the Overdrive SE was compared to several high-end DACs in this review last month:
http://www.audiostream.com/content/empirical-audio-overdrive-se-usb-dacpre

Nothing beat it.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
guf's avatar
guf
22 posts
 
I listen to mostly redbook. I've had W4S dac2, with off ramp 5 and short block, and lampizator 4 and now 7. I loved all of them at different times. But to your question. I'm so impressed with the Big7 playing redbook. Very engaging.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Guf, are you running your Lampy with the off ramp 5? Or direct in with USB and no off ramp?

Are you using stock tubes, or have you rolled them?
erikminer
433 posts
 
Emm Labs Dac2x.. Chord QBD76 HDSD, Berkely Audio Reference Dac
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