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
Ah hah Grannyring- there you have it - the power of words. Tell your wife I'll be looking forward to the next installment!
Hey Grannyring, was it really your wife? If so, kudos to her.

It was a very enjoyable blog!
09-08-14: Charles1dad
Mtruong34,
Different perspectives I imagine. You're unmarried, I've been very happily married 27 years. My wife has a wonderful wit and sense of humor and would understand Agear's context and find the comments funny.Agear your wife seems to have a wry sense of humor and gets it. Neither would need well meaning but condescending defense of their gender. They can handle it and dish it out.
Charles,
You're pretty opinionated and don't seem to mind sticking your nose into very personal subject matter. Then again, you're about as subtle as a bull in a china shop. Stop acting like a self-appointed Moderator!
09-09-14: Audiowoman
Ah hah Grannyring- there you have it - the power of words. Tell your wife I'll be looking forward to the next installment!

An elegant economy of words Audiowoman. Me likey.

Heather loved Bill's wife's blog as well and asked if she could make contributions. Maybe it could be a collective affair....not sure how I feel about that....