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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
"I'm assuming the OR6 tech is integrated into the ODSX Diamond. Are you considering using the Dynamo supply and power block usb supply for the ODSX as well?"

Yes, that is the plan. The Dynamo is not needed, but the Power Block improves things.

"If we use the TotalDac usb cable, is it necessary/compatible to use the Short Block with it?"

No, it works alone. Turns out that other cables work fine afterall. Its something that I am doing....

"How goes ODSX progress?"

I have one breaking in on the bench with Jupiter caps. IT will take a few weeks to break in completely.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
AudioL - the ODSE uses the same volume control. It does not need to get "better" IMO. Already the best out there.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Have to share...I have the OSDE now. It's got all the updates I assume. I have a Synchro mesh and the mac mini server with the Paul Haynes power supply. I have Steves usb cable (waiting on the short block) and a BNC cable he made for connecting the supply to the mac. I use AQ Niagara balanced into the Ayre AX7e, Vandersteen Treo with AQ Castle Rock.cables.

I also use a Basis TT with Benz cart and Heed phono, so I have analog as a reference in my system. The OSDE needs to still break in a bit, but WOW.....Now I hear what the fuss is about. I've heard most of the big name DACS now and there are some major disconnects for me with most of them.

I know I like something when I relax and just listen. I can't do that with digital most of the time. On rare occasions I've been able to. I'm really loving what I"m hearing in my system right now and I know it will get better. I can't wait to hear it once it's all broken in. Hopefully I can get the Vandy Treo CT's soon too as that will help.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Audioengr, Are you saying the ODSX Diamond has the same volume control as the ODSE?, If I recall, matt had problems with the volume control not doing no sound at all when turned all the way down, matt, Am I correct on remembering this?, Steve, this is why I asked if the volume control would be better?
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Audiol - it has the same volume control. It has internal jumpers if you need zero volume to be more quiet. I think mute is a better choice if you need it dead quiet. This is a part of the volume technology. it does not go to zero unless you mute.

I have used the ODSE for many years and never needed zero on the volume.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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