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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
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
10-04-14: Charles1dad
Mel,a good friend of mine has the Aesthetix Romulus Signature and I've listened to it often(it replaced his good sounding Modwright Oppo 105 and then his Lampizator DAC, very good).The Romulus is truly a natural sounding and passionate music reproducer.
Charles,
Charles, I agree with your description of the sound of the Aesthetix. I actually considered upgrading to the Signature version, however the 9v pre-out is not a good match with my Vitus SIA-025 which likes a lower gain. After reading about Grannyring's system I also considered his fairly full on mods, but experience has taught me you don't get your money back when you move it on. I think i'm making the right call upgrading to a Vitus SCD-025 with the new DSD upgrade.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi Mel,
I'm certain that Grannyring's modifications to his Romulus improved his sound quality(I put the same Jupiter Cu foil caps in my amplifier, they're terrific). But as you correctly point out, improved sound or not, resale value usually takes a hit. I'd have to think that the Vitus CD player is a ideal fit for your system.
Charles,
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
steve N, that is an interesting post about re-break-in of a componet.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I have been told by all who show at the Audio shows that it takes at least 3-5 days minimum to re-break in a component after moving or shipping. Some take even longer.

The Aeris had stabilized. Guido was quite emphatic about giving it enough burn in time. The more I think about it, the more I am sure it had over 1200-1400 hours on it. I brought it in because of Guido and really wanted it to be my top choice..... Fit and finish are just stunning. I went back and read my notes and the posts on this thread and, in my room, it had stabilized.

I'm really glad the next owner is enjoying it.
joecasey
484 posts
 
After reading about Grannyring's system I also considered his fairly full on mods, but experience has taught me you don't get your money back when you move it on. I think i'm making the right call upgrading to a Vitus SCD-025 with the new DSD upgrade.
Didn't y'all got the memo? It's been a LONG journey and Grannyring finally arrived at his destination so NO more moving on. He will be buried with this current rig.

It's probably true Grannyring won't recover his investment in tweaks but most importantly he's maximizing his system and enjoying himself. I love these guys highest priority is resale value when shopping for new components.

10-05-14: Charles1dad
Hi Mel,
I'm certain that Grannyring's modifications to his Romulus improved his sound quality(I put the same Jupiter Cu foil caps in my amplifier, they're terrific). But as you correctly point out, improved sound or not, resale value usually takes a hit. I'd have to think that the Vitus CD player is a ideal fit for your system.
Charles,
Doing a dandy job. Keep it up, Melbguy1 is working on his Halloween party invite list.
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