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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
 
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
1,475 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.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt, was at Audio Connections yesterday and got to hear the Romulus with the Vandy 7's in the big room. HOLY CRAP. If any of these other DAC;s sound better, then any of them are keepers. I was blown away by how right the sound was and it was just with ripped CD's. I'm a vinyl guy right now and I could EASILY live/love the Romulus. I have heard a lot of expensive DACS and none have made me think 'why vinyl'. The Romulus is a full CD player and DAC, but man it just sounded right. Glad you are doing this shootout.
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