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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
 
Agear, ya can't use the OffRamp with my Romulus CD player. If I were using a computer, the OR would be a must have.

I know that. :/

Your system link vaporized....???

I'm actually starting to get nervous about posting my results. ;) I'll just say it like I hear it.

I cannot wait to ridicule your findings!

Lampi versus turntable?
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
@ Mattnshilp, you still Have my attention, back a few post, I said that this is the most profound thread for digital in a long time, after that, nearly the whole community poured on this thread, they also agree with my statement, like I said, It's not everyday you see this kind of comparisions with so many top dacs!, I am also very pleased you will make your impressions the way you hear it, good or bad, nothing to be nervous about, Happy listening.
hifial's avatar
hifial
332 posts
 
Hi Matt. I am going to ask you to add another DAC to your comparisons. But you will not have to pay any money. Meitner MA-1 DAC
Explanation below.

Two of my Audio buddies, who have a lot of experience in Audio have had a chance to compare the DS to several other DACs, one being the Meitner, in more then one system.

Lets just say you need to do the same. One of those friends you and I both know and I am sure he would be willing to bring his Meitner over for you to compare.

My suggestion is to compare the other DACs first and get your one or two favorites and then compare it/them to the Meitner.
hifial's avatar
hifial
332 posts
 
Also the Meitner has out performed a Lampizator L4 DSD only DAC and a Phasure DAC. Those two I heard for myself.

The Phasure gave a good fight and lost by only the smallest of margins.

A higher level/newer Lampizator DSD might make a difference.

All of the above was by more then one set of ears.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Wisnon - I am intrigued by that Allnic DAC. But I am going to wait and decide amongst these for now. As the thread states, my primary goal is the best Red Book/16-44 sound I can get.

HiFial - I will call Merrill and see if he will donate his MA-1 to the round-up. He offered once already so I'm sure he will oblige. I want to wait until I'm done with the ones I have. I need to re-claim some of my investment...

Guido - Thanks!
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