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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
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
I spoke with the guys at Aurender at THE Newport show and every one of them said the new N10 is actually better then their older top tier W20....

I'm still working on speakers and room treatments. I'll start trying a few music servers when I hit that point. But I have to say I have spoken to several (read many many) guys at the shows and most said that their computer sounded as good or better then the Aurender, Antipodes, Etc that they compared them with. I reserve judgement for my own ears when the opportunity comes.
erikminer
433 posts
 
I'm not surprised that "Guys" have said their computer is as good or better.. What are they going to say :-)

Bob V. is now an Aurender dealer.. I'm sure he'll hook you up.. And I wouldn't be surprised if the new N10 sounds better.. The Aurender guys are pretty on the ball..
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
With the speed at which the music servers are advancing, I just can't justify spending $10k ++ on something that will be improved upon within 2 years.

I have to say that Antipodes seams to lag behind Aurender in terms of product production. Lumin and Aurender seam to produce new product as the technology advances. I like that.

I'm not ready for that just yet. But I'm get close.....
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Carpet is out and they are putting in the new floor as I type. Carpenter coming tomorrow to replace the molding and then I start again. It took me 2+ hours to break the room down, and a serious back ache. It'l probably take me a bit less time to put it back since I went out and got some extra slider and gliders.

The Marten Coltrane Tenors arrived today. Lawrence Double Bass on July 1st and the Boenicke will be here on July 3rd. Hansen Prince E's are already here.

I'm dying to hear how the Muzik's sound with the vinyl floor and compare them all. With a list like this, I have to find something I like and will work well in the room. The only other pair I am seriously considering are the Perfect8's.

Fun fun fun.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Oops. And the Vandy 7 - I have not counted it out just yet.
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