2. digital
  3. 1398132150

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
4orreal
91 posts
 
"My Mac Mini beats practically every server except for the Antipodes"

Steve: Can you name the servers that were beaten by your Mac Mini?
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
wisnon, what are you useing for play back?
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Totally unrelated question for you tube guys;

I need some help. I'm in the process of adding some audiophile related decor accessories to my almost complete listening room. I'd love a bunch of no longer functioning, used up output tubes:

6C33C, 300B, 845, PX-25, KT-66/88, giant Kronzilla tubes, etc.

I'm glad to pay something reasonable plus shipping.

If anyone has any, or knows where I can get them please PM me.

Sorry to hijack my own thread. Lol.

Now back to dac's and servers.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
4orreal - I cannot list them here. I do business with some of these guys. Basically all PC-based servers I have heard and most Linux ones.

Thanks,
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
vyokyong
23 posts
 
Hi,

I just want to add my observation of USB cable which may be benefit for all.

I use YFS USB cable from my Mac Mini year 2012 to Offramp 5 and SPDIF cable from Offramp 5 to Audio Note DAC mod to level 4.1

The sound quality of YFS data only-Reference USB cable is much better than Oyaide Continental 5s Silver USB cable in my system.

Because Audiophile USB cable is more heavy than stock USB cable. The heavy weight of USB cable makes too much force or stress on contact point in USB socket and has worst affect to sound quality. Then I do hanging the USB cable so that there is less or normal force or stress to contact point in USB socket. The sound quality improves a lot in term of transparency, focus, halo-graphic and much better clear vivid mid range sound.

This is my observation. Please try and report back of your result. It is an big improvement without any payment.
More to discover