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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
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
6,996 posts
 
"Too often you have either one or the other" true.
The TF RA Box came as close to having it all (driven by Viva Aurora) as I've heard.
Charles,
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
The Consequence Ultimate have arrived. It took 4 big guys to get the 320 pound crates from the garage to the basement, and one utterly impatient neurotic audiophile to unpack and set them up alone! Oy mi'back!

I'm letting them steep as we speak. It's 1:01am. I can't play the stereo too loud but at quiet volumes and with nothing warmed up I'm encouraged by my early findings. Tone is correct and there is an incredible depth and complexity, even at low volume. I'm getting the same feel I got in the store - live music. I need to play a lot with placement. They are big, but don't overwhelm the space nor limit placement, at least not as far as I can tell just yet.

I'm listening with the Bricasti M1 since it was last hooked up. I need to get my ODSE back in to return my system to its base. Once I get used to everything I owe everyone a comparison of the ODSE and M1.....

Stay tuned.
agear
1,353 posts
 
Winner winner chicken dinner
agear
1,353 posts
 
flip up some pics on your system page for the sake of us voyeurs....
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Please feel free to view my updated photos on my Virtual System page.
All new pictures are up.
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