2. digital
  3. 1398132150

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
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Charles1dad, How much money do I need to spend on an active pre-amp, $10,000.00 plus for a additional sound to deal with that degrades the signal by going through more circuit boards and cables?, I have found that cost alot, much, much, more money to get an active pre-amp to be sublime in sound, LOL!, ask matt how much money the criterion cost?, I know a state of the art active can do wonders, Re- morgage the house!
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Hi Audiolabyrinth, Criterion used to list for $18.9K, but has completed production... The current Rowland flagship is Corus, listing for $14.9K.... The Capri S2 at $3,950 is also a wonderful linestage.... A little warmer than Corus, and supports an optional internal DAC card with SPDIF input.

G.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Hi all. I was including the DSD-S in my opinion about running direct. I listened to the DSD-S direct for about 20 min to completely firm up what I knew in the first 2 minutes.... I like my sound pumped through my Criterion better.

As always, my opinion, in my system. I make no speculation as to how it would sound with different gear or the same gear and different ears. I would suspect that those who like the clean, crisp, accuracy and dynamics of Meitner's gear would love running direct.

Thanks Melbguy1, for bringing up a nice option. I'm sure some readers will definitely look into the SCD-025 with your suggestion. What is the retail?
bill_k
939 posts
 
Matt - I couldn't find confirmed US pricing but the SCD-025 sells for £16,500 in the UK which converts to ~$27,700 US.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Audiolabyrinth,
Grannyring's TRL DUDE or my Coincident Statement are both well south of 10K (much less) and both would be considered premium level performers IMO. Naturally between these two personal taste decides preference. You may not choose either compared to direct source to amplifier. As Grannyring noted, some will lean toward the direct sound, just depends on what presentation you are drawn to . I'd guess that Matt's Criterion preserves musical information and involvement he finds diminished or absent with direct source alternatives.
Charles,
More to discover