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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
 
Omg guys!

What's going on????

When I say "my thread" it means one I started and constantly read.

Am I missing something here? Did I piss someone off and not notice it?

Everyone take a deep breath, and let's leave the High School immaturity to the kids in High School....

For those who are interested in audio equipment and music, please read on.
tboooe's avatar
tboooe
1,009 posts
 
Matt, off topic for sure but what acoustic panels are you borrowing? I just added some Vicoustic Cinema Round panels for my 1st reflection points and I am amazed at the improvement in bass, clarity, and soundstaging. Ive got some RealTraps Mondo Bass Traps coming next week as well. I am excited to hear the changes.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Still Point Apertures.
I was lent them by Merrill.

My room is shared with my wife so I can't do anything permanent or wall hanging.

I can put the Apertures on wood stands and set them up when I'm listening. But I haven't had time to do it yet since I need to build the stands.

I SO wish I had a dedicated room!!!!

Tboooe - keep us all posted. I think room treatment is the missing like in many of our rooms, mine probably worst of all! Sigh.

We do what we can in search of the elusive musical magic moments.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Missing link. Not missing like.
nglazer
734 posts
 
I doubt you can do better and anything near its price than the PS Audio Direct Stream DAC. Mine is just burning in and it is, in a word, breathtaking. This from a listener who started on digital with the Magnavox CDB 650, first 16 bit player, back in 1986. Just one man's opinion, but there are few components I have found so impressive.

Neal
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