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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
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
I just pulled the trigger on a used Overdrive with all the updates. I can't wait to get it up and running. Still trying to figure out what I'll use to stream things. I am still leaning towards a server as it's easier for me. I lost out on a couple of the mac mini's from 2009.

I know Steve says Mac mini with new power supply and a NAS. Do any of you use a server and if so, which one. I assume you will also use the USB connection. I'll get the Synchro Mesh so I can use my Apple TV and Uverse box (both toslink).
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
It looks like out hour and a half phobe conversation helped you to make a decision. You won't regret your choice. Wait until you hear it!!!
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Dagogo review of the ODSE just out:

http://dagogo.com/empirical-audio-overdrive-se-usb-dacpredac-review

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt, so pumped. Have to make sure my paypal has cleared...Then I can get what I want from Steve, lol. Headed down to NJ to Audio Connection tomorrow as I have sold a bunch of me gear that's I've had there for re tubing. If you are around???? Steve has been AWESOME in dealing with my questions etc... That was a huge reason I pulled the trigger over the Ayre.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Congrats Steve! A well deserved glowing review.

Merrill (of Merrill Audio) really liked the ODSE when I invited him over to compare his Meitner to my, then newly acquired, ODSE. He and some of his friends had just finished their own DAC shootout and found his Meitner to be the winner. He was very quiet while we listened to the Meitner, Lampy Big 6 and the ODSE. He never formally admitted defeat of his Meitner but he agreed that the ODSE sounded the best of the 3 in my system and my room.

He told me the next day he really liked it and had reached out to a reviewer friend of his to tell him about "his" discovery. Lol. I guess his Friend (who was obviously Mr. Borden) liked it also.
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