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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
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Keith, you should check details on the page that I have posted above. Seems there is only a partial upgrade path for original K-01 K-03 owners. I am not quite sure of the US MSRP of K-01X and K-03X... Probably K-01 hovering around $20K, but I am guessing.

G.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,483 posts
 
Did you guys see the triangleArt $129,000.00,, 900 pound turntable that just got on the main sales screen of audiogon?, to many questions on this, one would be, why would anyone need a turntable of this pounds weight or cost?, not trying to change the topic here, really wanted all of you to check it out!
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
4,637 posts
 
Matt, see if you can borrow this 900 turntable for a shootout vs. your EA dac on select recordings.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
I'm very sorry all, but I just can't consider a turntable that weighs less then 1400 pounds! I mean, I must have standards!!!
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
Fwiw...my brother in law was in the same dilemma...and spent a boat load on a premium dac ...suffice to say...it was a marginal improvement at best...but he at least got bragging rights out of it...haha
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