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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
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Also, I didn't try any hi-res music yet. I will do that next week as well.

I'm trying to be fair and give everything a solid listen. It's very demanding of my time and concentration. Fun, but not easy.
tboooe's avatar
tboooe
1,009 posts
 
Matt, any thoughts on those Apertures??? At those prices I am very intrigued!
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I need to build some type of stand. I just don't have time.
I'm trying to do 20 minutes of projects with 40 seconds to do it in. Sigh....
tboooe's avatar
tboooe
1,009 posts
 
Understood Matt. I just my panels on cardboard boxes for now. At the rate I go, they will probably stay on the boxes forever and be properly mounted. Its all about the music right??? :)
aplhifi-usa
38 posts
 
Sure, I understand! Thank you for your valuable time, Matt!

Please also don't forget trying the DSD64 setting from the corresponding button on the remote.

Report on the high-res would be very nice. There are so many SACD's available. You can always check what is out there on SACD on this site: http://sa-cd.net/

You can also check: http://www.acousticsounds.com where you can find DSD downloads as well.

This article here gives various links to high-res downloads too, including DSD: http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/the-abcs-of-dsd-downloads/?page=5

Best wishes,
Alex Peychev
APL Hi-Fi
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