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
I have been consistently impressed with Empirical over the last many years. As new designs are discovered he offers mods at a nominal price. His most recent mod made the SPDIF converter obsolete with the odse. Matt, I agree that quality trumps price and break in time. I am sure the sx price will reflect those quality parts.
Matt -the plan is to put either XMOS USB interface or Network Renderer Ethernet interface on the SX DAC. Still working on the XMOS prototype and almost ready to tape-out the network renderer module.

SX uses the same size chassis, but new panels and a new knob with a diamond in it.

Steve N.
Emmpirical Audio
May I suggest an option sens-diamonds... Some users might prefer an understated look. G.