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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
 
We are all older Matt, lol. John will be the first to tell you that, lol. I just recently met him and he blew me away with his knowledge. He's in sales, but he gets it. He wants everyone happy with what they buy. I've seen him go out of his way to help people who have never and will never spend a dime in his store. I've been fortunate to get to know him a bit out of work (he's never really stops working) and he's just a good human being. That's why I stump for him on the board I think. I've met so many dirt bags in audio that it gets old. More awesome people though. He will let you tell him what you want and then guide you. I'd laugh if you ended up with AR or some other brand instead, lol.
gpgr4blu
1,096 posts
 
I also buy from John. A real gem.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
How many here buy from John? I ran into Mark and Billy when I was there and I wonder if I have run into anyone else? Matt, you'll have to meet us there next time I come down.
johnson0134
26 posts
 
Ctsooner - Thanks for the reply. What's the reason you ended up buying Music Hall, not Ayre? Money?
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Because the price was right. I sounds a bit better in the mids than my Krell. It works perfectly in my new Vandy Treo, Ayre system. I'd have to pay a ton more for Ayre, which would work great with my stuff, but it only has USB input and I use three digital inputs already. I LOVE the Ayre when I've heard it in a few different systems. If you heard what the Ayre gear sounded like on Vandy 3a's, you'd probably love what you heard. I think digital is changing rapidly, but I could live with what the Ayre does for years and years I'm sure. I have decided to take the money from selling off my gear and put it into vinyl I think. I have so much great music that needs to be cleaned and then played to be enjoyed.
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