Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Awesome read and mandatory for all digital audio users!

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/2016/05/gordon-rankin-on-why-usb-audio-quality-varies/

Also an interesting point I saw in a review of the Gen 2 Antipodes DX made by the DX designer:
According our man in New Zealand the argument against Ethernet (and for USB) runs like this: compared to Ethernet, USB has the potential to carry more noise from the server to the DAC but generates less of its own noise inside the DAC (think: receiver chips). Ethernet remains a good strategy with a noisy server. However, it can be bested by USB when a low noise server with a decent clock is present.

My fist experience with an Ethernet Renderer in a DAC has not been overwhelmingly positive. I feel that it ads a whole new series of variables that we (read I) am unfamiliar with: linear power supplies for Ethernet switches, low voltage switches, audiophile grade Ethernet cables, direct connection with bridged Ethernet ports vs. using a switch, etc.... there are a few excellent threads that discuss these tweaks but it all comes down to how crazy into the computer end of the DIY you want to go versus embracing a ready made server product. 

Do I think that Ethernet Renderers built into DAC's is the best big thing? YES, I do! Do I think everyone is ready for it and the audio world is prepared to implement it properly? No, 

I haven't followed this very long thread but if Bricasti isn't a leading contender for a red book dac some bad advice is being offerred here. As a bonus if desired it will sound better direct into your amp than using any preamp. I'm blessed to have very good gear and the M1 is one of those buy and forget pieces. Awesome customer service as well. 

Yes, I'm in the back row to the right of center with glasses and goatee.  Not my most flattering pic though, lmao....

Close, but no cigar.  I am glad that USB is finally getting a look at that it just may not be the end all to PC audio.  The problem with USB (and why they sound so different, so unstable, prone to everything) is because USB data is transmitted in packets, and not a stream.  I just use spdif and have not played with the ethernet, etc but I have always kept away from USB.  USB is a belly button.  Every computer has one. PC manufacturers wanted to keep customer service costs down, so came up with usb audio, rather than having you open up your computer to install a sound card.  USB is the anus of your computer. I do't want my music coming out of there.  

4425 - yes Bricasti M1 was in my room. And now it’s not. This thread isn’t about if a DAC is good or bad, it’s about finding the best damn DAC out there for MY room and MY ears. I never imply that my opinion is THE opinion, just AN opinion. And everyone needs to remember that. I just like sharing on my journey and I love the company. And I have had a ton of great suggestions from the group along the way. If a DAC made it into my room, it’s one of the absolute best. So if you are looking and use my thread consider IF I listened to it and what my description of it was. I try to be honest and accurate. And as a reminder, I made a personal opinion to not consider tube DAC’s. Right or wrong, I just cut them out after my first round of auditions. It doesn’t mean they are t worth considering. Lascala, Golden Gate, etc. and a ton of other great tube DAC’s should be considered if tubes are in your equation. I just chose to not include them in mine. 

Thanks guys.