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
Mitch, did you use a remote app to run your mac mojo? Did you use Amarra or another? Thanks.
02-16-15: Mattnshilp writes:
Metralla - to correct a common misconception.
I am under no misconception. I was making a pun on your use of "baited" instead of the correct word. A common error.
Auto correct corrected my "bated" to "baited".
Then control it.

Regards,
Wisnon, What do you think about the music vault that is listed here on audiogon for a good budget player?, seem's it has alot of spec's as good as other top streamer's, however, the designer will build to suite,cheers.
Metralla - I meant no disrespect. I happen to have an intense fascination for the linguistic origin of expressions (and curses). I was just sharing another of my passions. Although I question some of their accuracy, I have amassed a tidy collection of expressions/curse origins. It's fun....

Thanks for posting.
Matt,
I believe I read the Antipodes software is based on Fedora Linux.
With the Hex, there is no need for anything to "sever the USB power" to the DAC, since the Hex does not need or use USB power from the source because the Hex has its own internal USB power supply. Also, the Antipodes DX provides two USB outputs, one that is powered and one that has no power (which is the one I use with the Hex). For now, I also run the (non-powered) USB through the ifi Power for galvanic isolation (not sure if this is needed but it doesn't seem to hurt), outputting signal only, and then through the ifi filter then into the DAC. With the Mojo mini set-up, I also took the USB power out with the ifi Power to feed the Hex only the signal side of the USB.

Ctsooner,
I have actually been using a mouse and screen to run the Mojo mini. I use the Pure Music player because I thought it sounded better than the other two and I like how it interfaces with iTunes. There is no particular reason why I have not switched to a remote control to run the mini, since I have both an iPad and iPhone. After using the remote (iPeng8) with the Antipodes DX, I will probably go ahead and download a remote I can use with the mini, while I further compare the two servers.