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
Yes' there is an improvement using LPS for the router and FMC , Im using the W4S LPS1 and do not know if its fast acting or not but there is clearly an audible difference with the LPS then without. I even have the LPS,s plugged into a power conditioner. 

For the FMC nearest the Dac I use a battery. I actually have 2 batteries for this so when one runs down I simply hook up the 2nd battery.

















Ok, so now I won't freak out about not using this LPS unit that I purchased.  I will use it for the router.  

Ketch, you need to call later today if you are able to.  We really need to catch up.  I read Steve's thoughts on the optical conversion and added jitter.  I am now wondering if one of the filters may be better sounding.  

I think that's one of the biggest things in the basic ethernet connection to the network for servers etc..  I stream Tidal, so I need to be hooked up to the net.  Probably going to use the Audioquest Diamond ethernet to the Eero nest type router.  If this IS my set up eventually, I need to figure out (with help guys ;) ) what filter or isolation to do.  Thanks all.  
CT - I need your phone number. PM me.

I just purchased some WireWorld Cat8 cables and a Platinum power cord for my new yet to arrive dac, which is being sent to Matt to play with first.

What is being said here mirrors extensive research on Computer Audiophile in the past. Adding an LPS to everything in my network, I am best served to keep all non-audiophile required items wireless and have LPS to each NAS, Audiophile Switch, router and maybe modem. Add in expensive cable...costs are similar to a new system!

With the ton of noise injected from switch power supplies in my house, my office AC line being by far the worse, the only other option than optical is a series of galvanic isolation units. I have observed benefit with multiple units but other have not in their system.

I think Giso brand is better than most but I have not tried all of them out there now.
So I have a Lampy Big 7 (most recent generation) warming up as we speak. Looking forward to hearing it. And a visit with a Pacific incoming. The new Big 7 is built nothing like the original versions, it’s in a different reality to be honest. The original Big 6 & 7 I saw and heard looked like they were built in someone’s garage (because they were). Needless to say that’s not the case any longer. Keep an eye out for my formal evaluation upcoming. 

Sorry ive been slow recently, and haven’t posted a video in some time. Work and family have been insane. 
Excellent, Matt.

Please do give a ring if you need any help getting things going...  

After you've had a chance to digest this, we'll work on setting up a play date for the Pac to come over.

Best,

Fred