Matt, as you know I'm setting up my optic Ethernet network in the next couple of weeks also. I want to come down in May (booked in April with Juice Plus convention and a trip to see my daughter in the collegiate national finals cheer comp) and I'll bring my Mac Mini server that I got from Steve. Honestly, I think it's better sounding than the Aurender or even the Antipodes that I heard. Steve may feel differently, but this server is a killer. I just need to get a Melco used as a NAS to store and rip my music. I agree that so far anything I've fed my Ayre QX5 via ethernet is the best sounding. I've heard the optical ethernet vs straight ethernet in a store a few months ago and was blown away by the subtle differences. They are small, but big at the same time as the noise floor was lowered and allowed more of the recording to come through. Yes, lot's of info. Let's also plan and visiting Lavorgna at his barn. I have an invite and it would be a blast! Call when you get a free moment.
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 $$$ DAC's into your house for an audition ain't easy.
Looking for musical, emotional, engaging, accurate , with great dimension. Not looking for analytical and sterile.
Putting together a reference level system.
My Source is predominantly standard 16/44 played from a MacMini using iTunes and Amarra. Some of my music is purchased from iTunes and the rest is ripped from standard CD's.
For my tastes in music, my high def catalogues are still limited; so Redbook 16/44 will be my primary source for quite some time.
I'm not spending DCS or MSB money. But $15-20k retail is not out of the question.
Upsampling vs non-upsampling?
USB input vs SPDIF?
All opinions welcome.
And I know I need to hear them, but getting these ultra $$$ 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.
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- 4405 posts total
- 4405 posts total