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
Hi Winson, That is exactly what I do with my Tube digital, Run it straight to the Stereo Amplifier I have, you can get a really good active pre-amp that will work well, However, My exsperience is what your post said, most, but not all pre-amps smear, add haze, and slow the timeing down compaired to what I am doing, I know, I know, get a $10,000.00 pre-amp or a little less, that will do the trick, mmmm, yet to hear one that does not add their own flavor of sound to the mix!
Paul79, I still would like to know your reply on my above post to you, thankyou.
Grannyring, Hi, Did you roll your 12AX7 tubes?, If so, what did you use in the position?