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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
agear
1,362 posts
 
08-18-14: Paul79
System:

Totaldac Monobloc DAC's and Totaldac Server/Reclocker made for Monobloc DAC's, all DSD Ready

Music network consisting of an Ipad, NAS, and Router feeding server via Ethernet cables, controlled over Wifi. Both NAS and Router powered with Paul Hynes SR5-12 Linear Supplies. Network is isolated as music network with no homerun Ethernet or internet required.

Super tweaked Technics 1200MKV Turn Table with Benz Ebony HS

Joseph Audio Perspective Speakers

NOS Valves VRD Mono Tube Amps and NOS Valves NBS Preamp. Both latest and greatest versions. Transparent is the word.

System powered with 2 dedicated circuits. One circuit using PI Audio UberBuss Conditioner to power the amps, pre, DAC's, and Server/Reclocker.
Second circuit for music network (NAS/Router) powered with PI Audio MiniBuss Conditioner.

Analog interconnects and speaker cables are Antipodes Reference

Power cables mix:
WyWires Silver Juice II
Avanti Audio Allegro
PI Audio Mongo
TWL 7+

Digital Cables:
Antipodes Kokiri AES/EBU
Totaldac USB Cable/Filter
Empirical Audio 4' BNC to BNC SPDIF Cable

Room is right and ready, tuned with traps, diffusors, panels

That bout covers it. Sounds very real and makes me want to dance every time I listen.

Nicely done and meticulous. Dropping the Hynes stuff on your NAS and router is a nice idea. Are you the original owner of the monos or did you buy them from Dallasjustice....former flag waiver in chief for Totaldac? I am looking into his USB cable. Vincent Brient is a meticulous and thorough engineer and it seems like some serious product.
erikminer
433 posts
 
I think that you may be able to get better sound in the basement due to the lack of constraints.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Paul79 - not to digress, but are you using any 6SN7 or KT66 NOS tubes?

I've been through a bunch of these and found the sweet ones. Email me.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
paul79
174 posts
 
Agear:

No, straight from France. New with silver faceplates.

The Totaldac USB Cable I have had longer than the Totaldac Monobloc's. I used it previously with a Mac Mini and an Auralic Vega. Totaldac beat Audioquest Diamond and a Revelation Silver handily here. I recommend it highly. It is much more transparent and gives a very solid and highly focused image vs. the other 2. Gets the inner detail right.

Steve: I can run KT66's here. I'll holler at you.
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