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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 actually have a more affordable DAC in my plans, that supports DSD (and native) for the masses that must have this. Its probably a year off. Too many other things on my plate right now.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
jafox
1,467 posts
 
Thank you Steve. It's always good to hear when a designer puts out a great performing product at a lower cost. For your products, did you ever try using linear power supplies from such companies as Lambda or HP and were they ugh more affective than the wal wart supplies? Was there something lacking that motivated you to design your own external PS as an option?
agear
1,362 posts
 
I have never bought anything from Steve, but I have spoken with him on several occasions and he is nothing but professional and generous with his time. There are a fair amount of dysfunctional audio companies out there, and his is not one of them...

On another note, I have had several people go back to CDPs from computer audio claiming improved SQ. I wonder what the Esoteric plastic spinner would be like into the Aeris versus your Mini?
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Hi Agear, good question... But I suspect that various Esoteric transports might yield different results into a given DAC... E.g. X-01, X-03, K-01, K-03, P-02, P-01 Grandioso have different transport subassemblies, different electronics, and different mechanical packages.

G.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Jafox - literally every linear supply on the market as well as many SMPS are just too slow reacting to be interesting for digital. The regulators just dont compare to the Hynes technology. Most aupplies dont have very good input noise rejection either. Another area where Hynes tech shines.

The supply upgrades for my Off-Ramp and Synchro-Mesh are Hynes tech linears also.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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