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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
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,535 posts
 
I am also of the opinion that the few manufacturer posters are welcome. No problem at all. They can share opinions, insights, and comedy if they like. In the end, we all learn more and will still make our own purchasing decisions based on our preferences.
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
991 posts
 
I suppose they can post but they should be civil and professional at all times without resorting to insulting and inflammatory remarks.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,535 posts
 
Agreed
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Not so fast Mattnshilp, I believe you should look into this for a usb/spdif converter for your computer, State-of-the-art CD transports vs USB/SPDIF converter shootout:"

http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/state-art-cd-transports-vs-universal-serial-bus-industry-standard-cables-connectors-and-communications-protocols-between-computers-and-electronic-devices-spdif-converter-shootout-15193/

The results of above comprehensive comparison perfectly reflect my own impressions as well, albeit via different equipment and interface (but that'd only underline the generality of the matter at hand).

Notice the difference in price between the CD-transports and USB to S/PDIF converter + server used.. ,, cheers.
rx8man's avatar
rx8man
1,484 posts
 
That's an informative article by Elberoth.
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