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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
wisnon
700 posts
 
JFox,

Paul Hynes (very, very nice bloke) makes many custom LPSU with multiple rails. indeed, he does have order cancellations from time to time and offer such units for sale with immediate delivery. I just got my SR3 a few months back and have not listened to it yet.

That remainds me, I must give Paul a call to say hello and have a small chat.
jafox
1,477 posts
 
Thank you Wisnon. I sent an email to Paul.
agear
1,362 posts
 
Guido, it was more of a generic question regarding CD transport versus computer
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Agear, unfortunately generic questions do not often have attractive universal answers... The audio devil always lurks in the proverbial details.

Hence the endless variables... Which CDPs, which computers, which connections, which user preferences, etc...? G.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Jafox - it is better to use two separate supplies, one for the Mini and one for the Of-Ramp. Its just like the analogy of stereo amp versus monoblocks or preamp and amp versus integrated. Separate power is ALWAYS better.

Besides, I have optimized the Hynes design for use with my Off-Ramp and Synchro-Mesh. Its a different supply.

The Mini supply I highly recommend from Hynesdesign.com.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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