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
some rather acidic commentary over on the Asylum regarding this thread. A thread about a thread! Now that's notoriety!

"Ultimate DAC shootout on Audiogon"
Hi Alex, Are you saying that your DSD-S sounds better running direct to amplifiers?, you have a volume control on it?, explain what type of volume control it has, and how it benefits over a pre-amp.
Hi AGear, somehow the URL of the AA thread in question did not make it to your post... Mind reposting it?

Thanks, G.
Look Ma, I'm famous!!!!

http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/digital/messages/17/172891.html
08-04-14: Guidocorona
Hi AGear, somehow the URL of the AA thread in question did not make it to your post... Mind reposting it?

Tried before but failed. You can Google it. I have always found it interesting to observe the little subcultures that develop in various sites. Most seem to look down their noses at their counterparts...:/