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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
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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
DSD cannot be added to the ODSE, but the new DAC will have it.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
jafox
1,483 posts
 
Thank you Steve. With limited remaining shelf space I was trying to reduce the number of more boxes and power cords. I will start with the Turbo 5 PS after I spend much time comparing the T5 with the wal wart vs. MacMini str8 into the Lampi B6 via USB.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
ODSE expected next week yay!

DSD-S also incoming. Looking forward to that.

Will keep you updated.
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