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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
 
Matt, Here is an interesting development… Esoteric has announced/released new versions of its fabulous K-01 and K-03 players, to be called K-01X and K-03ZX respectively. Apparently they use some trickle-down technologies from the Grandioso multibox flagship players. I absolutely loved the original K-01, with slow Delay 2 filter and 4X upsampling, but I do not know how the K-01X DAC component driven by your MacMini via USB would compare to OD or even Aeris.

http://www.esoteric.jp/products/esoteric/k01x/indexe.html

Compatibility with high resolution source material is delivered through a free High Res audio player, downloadable from:

http://www.esoteric.jp/products/esoteric/hr_audio/indexe.html

Saluti, G.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
Thanks for the heads up Guido! The K-01X looks like a pretty killer player given it is based on the flagaship Grandioso. This new model with DSD USB input would have to be regarded as one of the top single box players in the high end market. The free media player download is a good idea as well.
agear
1,362 posts
 
Matt, the Lampizator thugs will be at the NY show along with TRL and Mosaic Audio. It will be your chance to "hear" a L7 whatever thats worth....
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
when does the New Esoteric spinners go on the market?, what kind of money are we talking here?, will there be availabile up-grades for the original K to the 01x and 03zx ?
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Keith, you should check details on the page that I have posted above. Seems there is only a partial upgrade path for original K-01 K-03 owners. I am not quite sure of the US MSRP of K-01X and K-03X... Probably K-01 hovering around $20K, but I am guessing.

G.
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