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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
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
996 posts
 
Here's the link to Audiostream's review of the Overdrive ODSE + Power Supply + Final Drive + Short Block

http://www.audiostream.com/content/empirical-audio-overdrive-se-usb-dacpre

Reviewer's comments, comparing it to the Bricasti M1 :-
"The Overdrive SE sounded closer to the tonal balance and general sound of the Bricasti Design M1 DAC. The $8995 Bricasti was even faster and more resolving in the midrange and highs than the Overdrive SE and while possessing much of the general ease of the Analog DAC. Adding the Final Drive, Short Block, and direct balanced connection brought the Overdrive SE’s performance closer to that of the Bricasti Design M1."
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
I was concerned that this thread was going away, as I watched it go down further off the forum page, I am pleased to see this thread return!, matt, It would seem that you have had adequete time to report on the Esoteric K-01, unless the importance of the report means nothing because you may have not liked the out come and sold the unit?
agear
1,362 posts
 
10-27-14: Jon2020
That's the thing about digital. There is always something new and exciting just around the corner.

And that's one reason why not to take it very seriously. Watching all these "changes" with bated breath is tomfoolery. Its a lot like getting excited about a new computer. You know it will be dusted by what comes six months later....
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
996 posts
 
Agear,
Agree. Even so, a comparative review of the latest state-of-the-art digital gear would make a good read on a lazy Sunday afternoon. :)
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Jon2020 - the Bricasti is again compared to the Overdrive SE as well as other DACs in the Dagogo review. Interesting reading when it comes out. There were a few improvements made to the Overdrive SE after the Directstream review.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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