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
Hi Mattnshilp,

First of all thanks for great thread!

Is there any chance for comparison of MA-1 against Aires and Lampi and PS DirectStream when it arrives?

Cheers,
seb
Happy Fathers Day to all you Dads!!

May your day be filled with wonderful family and beautiful music!!
Mattnshilp, enjoy your father's day and ignore as much of the pressure on you as you can. Incidentally, I hope you are enjoying your listening experiences.
Have you tried the Final Drive yet with the preamp?
Steve (Empirical Audio), is it safe to say your Final Drive is virtually a Music First or Bent TAP-X without a volume control?