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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
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
great review Jon2020, I suspected that the out come would be as you exsperienced of the Esoteric K-01 player, let's see if matt comes to the same conclusion?
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Jon2020,
I think you're right with the 3 predictions.
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
988 posts
 
Thanks for the kind comments.
As cliched as it may sound, the proof is in the listening.

For the K-01 to perform optimally as a transport alone, the following settings are necessary :-

1. Digital out > CD
2. Upsampling > ORG
3. Digital filter > OFF
4. Analog out > OFF

Cheers! J.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Hi Matt, you must be knee deep in your listening room project?, I was hopeing you may have more feed back on your Esoteric K-01 player to post here?
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
K01 done burning in usb Monday. I'll put something up by Wed.

Room is progressing. All wiring done except few details with lighting. I'm recovering from running the 4/3 cable from mains to sub panel. My shoulder is killing me. A HUGE thank you to JEA48 on the 'Gon who has really helped me on the rights and wrongs to make the electrical audiophile grade.

They are framing out the rear soffit today and then putting up insulation. Probably rocking next week. It's amazing how the contractors think I'm insane for what this is and the meticulous detail to which I want everything done.
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