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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
erikminer
433 posts
 
Too warm as in sonically or physically? If it's sonically maybe you ought to consider all the room treatments first..Then you can back in what improves things..
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Actually, Erik, both. My room is too hot as well. I had to buy a super quiet fan that I kick on when I'm between songs. It's actually a bit on an issue.

But I meant sonically. Everyone I have spoken with (including 4 acousticians and people who make a living doing dedicated rooms) says that the carpet was an obvious mistake. It's absorbing the magic between 3k and 7k and leaving the room sounding warm because it's taking the highs that balance things out. It makes sense. I need a solid floor and a small area rug.

Regarding the treatments, I have pulled every absorber out of the room except the corner base traps. It helped. But I need the corner traps as the room has nodal issues that the traps help a lot.
richfield_hunter
68 posts
 
Matt

Go down to John at Audio Connection in Verona NJ and listen to his Vandy Sevens and then deciide if they are to much for your room. His room is about that same size and they sound great there. It will be the best decison you every made to make the trip and buy the Sevens you won't be dissapointed.
ctsooner
2,104 posts
 
And it looks ike I'm heading down to Audio connection tomorrow. Would love to meet any of you who are in the area.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Can anyone provide a list of speakers with the following characteristics:

1st order crossover
Time and phase aligned
Either sealed enclosure or front or bottom ported. Not rear ported.
Shorter then about 55", not more then about 20" deep.
Reference or statement product

I have a mental list. But I'm curious to see if I'm missing any.

I'm not necessarily using this as a be-all end-all requirement but it's a category to look at......
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