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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
wisnon
700 posts
 
Paul, you are always OK with me man. I was away for 4 days and so couldn't respond.

Keep your suggestions coming. Sorry if I made it seem like they are not welcome...they are!
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Bill_k, DOP needs computer time to convert back to DSD, that latency means more processing time. It is much better to keep DSD in DSD. It is true that it is all just math but DOP require more computation and choosing what to do with in-between numbers.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
Speaking of DSD, I just picked up an FIM DXD cd which was recorded AND mastered in 24-bit 352.8 kHz resolution onto a 99.9999% silver disc. I accept that my Vitus SCD-025Mk2 cdp will still be playing that in RB standard, but it should be a great recording which I think it is more important than the format imho.
wisnon
700 posts
 
TBG, DoP is DSD and latency can be adjusted by A+, for example.

DoP is DSD in a PCM shell, as you most likely know.
Direct DSD is not necessarily NATIVE. It may indeed be converted to PCM for playback in the Dac.

DoP may be limited to DSD128 only though...

Melba, DXD is high rate PCM not DSD...
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Wisnon, yes I know that but the computer has to unpackage the DOD that increase latency and as you say it also has a low limit.

Having heard a quad DSD recording at the RMAF, my quest is on.
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