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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
 
Guido, I didn't say I liked all of those options. Just that they were considered statement products. I heard an all CH system with $100k+ Zellaton speakers and neither the electronics nor the speakers were to my taste. But to some it is their holy grail and I would not want to take that away from them.

I forgot to add the new Soulution DAC I heard at RMAF. And the DAC that was in the Vivid and German Physiks room. The name currently escapes me. Lots of serious choices these days.
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Hi Matt, sorry... I did not imply that you enjoyed CH Precision. It's just that the sound of the brand is beyond my ability to grock. Yet, I am glad that some audio lovers do have an affinity to it.
G.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
Matt, yeah the SCD-025Mk2 is a wonderful sounding rb dac. Of the other dacs you mentioned, I've only had direct experience with the Soulution 500 & 700 series spinners & CH D1 with the optional dac board. Of course I really liked the Soulution 745 which sounded amazingly smooth, resolving and musical, though not cheap!

I also run a Vitus SIA-025 integrated which is a lovely integrated & had planned on upgrading to the new SS-025 power amp & SL-102 pre, but re-ordered my priorities and am now upgrading my speakers to Magico S7's which I think will give me a bigger improvement.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Guido - no worries. I didn't take it as an insult. Just pointing out.

Melbguy1 - cool. Enjoy those S7's!
tbg
5,263 posts
 
I have no idea what the last post is on this thread as I am tired of always having to spend time going through all the pages. After page 11, I will not post any longer.
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