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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
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt: do search on ebay for "display tubes"

AL,

I use modded SqBox Duet, MacMini, MB Air, CD transports, SACD player, SqBox Touch.

I will likely get an Aries and mod that heavily, and perhaps a Caps server to do HQP DSD upsampling.
wisnon
700 posts
 
AL:

I forgot...a local pal of mine has lent me his Bryston BDP2 for a couple months.

I will let you know how that pans out when I set it up and put it thru the paces.

For me though, anything that cant do DSD128 is a non-starter.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Wisnon, that is impresive, so your saying you do your own mods?
wisnon
700 posts
 
No...

I am working on getting an experienced person to do it. This needs pro tools.
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Hi all.

I invite everyone to take a look at my Virtual System in "All Out Assault" titled "Obsessed Again". I just updated all the photos with great shots of my brand new dedicated listening room. A dream of mine for 30 years!!!!

I'm SO excited!!!! I'm still waiting for my back ordered GIK side baffles. And I'm still waiting for my 9m xlr interconnects from pre to amps (also backordered). So no tunes yet; Waaahhhh!!!! But soon music will flow!
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