2. digital
  3. 1398132150

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
tompoodie
37 posts
 
Hi Matt, ironically, Steve has done that post before the moderator could even put my up on the board!!
I neglected to mention I am using Steve's cable in my setup.
Just for kicks I checked what a Nordost Odin digital cable costs....I find this hard to believe...$10,000 (cough,Gag)
kana813
956 posts
 
If Steve's cable is so, why isn't listed on his website?
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,483 posts
 
Thankyou Guidocorrona for backing me on matts Esoteric K-01 player, I believe he will further benefit with your help I am sure, He also needs to talk to other owners as well, I do not want matt to get false impressions of the k-01 player, or frustrated with all the burn-in!, He has no idea that this player takes more burn-in than any player in the world!, but man, the out come is staggering!
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
08-31-14: Calvinj
@melbguy1 well I bought mine from that tube store and it was a huge debacle. No ayon cd2s for me ever again. It went bright and thin quick. The letters on the remote came off and then I got the most arrogant customer service I've ever had in my life. I wouldnt take an ayon product if the paid me to.
Hi Calvin, yeah i'm aware of the commentary regarding issues with that store, including AL's concerns. Knock on wood I never had any issues with my CD-5s which I bought through my local Dealer, but even though I enjoyed my time with my player, i've heard enough complaints from friends here on A'gon regarding serious failures, including multiple failures and poor warranty support from Ayon to scare me off Ayon for life, so we're on the same page bro!
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
08-31-14: Audiolabyrinth
Calvinj, Melbguy1 knows I bought my unit from, usa tubes audio,that is why he said barbecue store just like you bought your Ayon from the same place, LOL!
Keith I shouldn't laugh as I know your ordeal put you through the wringer, but I couldn't help it as I had a vision in my mind of barbeque legs coming off your player & smoke rising from the cd tray, lol!
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