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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I just though of something that might make it a bit more unfocused. Because you already have transformers in the pre outputs, adding the second transformer in series floats the wiring between the transformers and the transformer cores on the FDs are not grounded. This can cause it to pick-up hum and RF, just like a ground-loop. Its essentially an antenna.

If you were to ground pin 1 on the FD input connectors to earth ground, it might eliminate this defocusing.

Connecting a transformer to another transformer is really not optimum. Only one is needed between components.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Thanks Steve.

So should I expect a similar result with FD between ODSE and Criterion since the Criterion has transformer on its input stage as well as it's output stage?

It sounds like the Rowland gear just doesn't play well with the FD. It's all about system synergy....
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Matt - the FD really helps if you don't have transformer on the output. If you have it, you don't really need the FD.

IF the transformers in the pre were same ones used in the FD, now this would make a BIG difference. It would also add at least $4K to the cost, with dealer markup.

If you had a pre without transformers, this would be the one to get the benefits of the FD.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Ok. So I will pass on trying the FD with the ODSE between it and the pre-amp, and with the Aeris direct. I will, however, try it with the Direct Stream when trying it direct to amp. Neither the DS nor the Veritas have transformers.

Next update will be Monday.
schussor
15 posts
 
The DS does have an output transformer. It is a passive (versus active) low pass filter for the DAC. It is the whole point of it.
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