Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

The ODSE is much better through Empirical Final drive transformers direct to the amp. The effect is not subtle. When compared to EMM Labs DAC2x with Allnic L3000, it is as if wool blankets wrapped three layers thick were removed from the speakers. The clarity was better, by a wide margin than using High Fidelity Ultimate Reference cables that cost $$$ used. In my experience, a preamp that cost 22K would provide added value but the value is not worth the price.

It may be better, however I run an integrated so I can't go without the preamp.

Mr. Paul,
How did you decide on the CAD USB cable? I have been looking at that very cable for a short run from my Antipodes DX to the Metrum Pavane. Have you heard the CAD USB cable with other DACs? Any feedback on that cable and how it compares to others would be appreciated.

Mitch2,

I decided on the CAD USB cable because Scott (Mr. CAD) also makes a high end DAC. To me that differentiated him from the other cable makers. He has skin in the game. A friend of mine is in the process of breaking in a CAD USB cable. He is going from a Mac mini to a pair of Devialet 400s to Vivid Audio G-2 speakers. I hope to hear his system in the next week or so. I did talk to him a few days ago and he was sounding very positive about the cable. I have a new DAC on order and hope to have it by the end of the month. I will share my findings once I have some runtime on the system. I did reinsert my original USB cable (Wywire Litespeed - no longer made) after I had 500 hours on the CAD. It was not a difficult decision to keep the CAD.

Thanks Mr. Paul. I have decided to try the CAD cable based on your comments and very positive reviews from several others. I too am awaiting construction of a new DAC so hope to have the cable arrive about the same time.