Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

I Love my Big 5 I dont know how it could be any better
and maybe my 5 is better than your 7 who knows

AL, my experience is that tube-rolling is much more profound than power cables in SOME links. I have found that tubes in any component can contribute to dramatic sonic changes. However, with cables, my experience has been that there is a definite pecking order that make the greatest difference in a system.

Today I can replace the IC from line stage to amp with any number of highly reviewed ICs and render the system almost lifeless…..it's like putting in a SS line stage. No other cable link in the system affects the 3D performance even remotely close as this. Once I have this link performing well, do other cable changes and tube experimentations begin to make serious contributions.

The best way to learn how significant each cable is, or tube may be, is to first achieve a level of personal audio nirvana. For many of us, this takes years and years. Then go back to some of your previously used tubes and cables…..and, with only one change, swap in that one item. Document the sonic change. Replace with original and repeat with other tubes, or ICs or only one power cord at a time with a typical $10 power cord from Home Depot. It will become quite clear as to which links in the system are most contributive or vulnerable to change. And such an experiment removes all the objective opinions by others as to which cable or tube or component is most important.

I find tube rolling can make or break the sound of a component but also find power cords more important than interconnects and or speaker cable. (and more important than tube rolling but both are essential)

I just ordered a week ago a Lampi Big 6 with DSD. I'm told the Big 6 sounds better on redbooks than the Big 7 and since I'm really only interested in redbook this is why I went this route. Although to be honest I listen to 90-95% analog on my Kuzma Stabi XL2 with Kuzma 4Point arm and Kuzma CAR-50 cartridge and as Alex of APL has stated even his Kuzma analog rig sounds better than any digital!
HAPPY LISTENING
Steve
SOS

(Dealer disclaimer)

Hi SKsos1, I say exotic power cords do a system profound, if you get the correct match of a power cord, I was lucky enough that I got such a profound match, I believe Jafox about tube rolling, and I will be doing so, However, I would be estatic if it turned out that tube rolling to some really good tubes had the effect he is speaking of, that is why I am wanting his addvice, he must know about some really good tubes to get to better some of the best power cords out there, you think?, I want to find out, I assure you, I am batting for Jafox to win this, much, much more cheaper with best results always wins!

Steve-Sksos1, congrats on the Lampi Big 6!