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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
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!
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
@Mattnshilp, congratulations on your terrific Esoteric K-01! It sounds like you got it for a killer price. As a transport, it is excellent and probably has one of the best proprietary transports around, with bomb-proof build quality beyond reproach. It would certainly give the Reimyo CDP-777's legendary XL-Z900 transport a run for it's money, but I would have to give the Reimyo the edge (as transport). I think you'll have to see which combo you prefer (ie: the K-01 playing as a cd player, transport fed by your ODSE dac, or as a dac feeding your Mac Mini). The K-01 should have a good dac, but you may prefer the tonality and musicality of your ODSE dac in the loop. Have fun experimenting & let us know your thoughts!

As for my earlier advice, It hasn't changed. If you want a transport; Reimyo. If you need a good tube linestage and don't need DSD; 2nd hand Ayon CD-5s re-tubed & upgraded. If you want a good valve cd player, DSD & don't need a tube linestage; Aesthetix Romulus Signature. But the K-01 is a damn good transport though.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
ps: Matt, if you're looking for a good value high end S/PDIF cable, i'd recommend the Jorma digital cable which is excellent value imho. 2nd choice would be the Nordost Valhalla 2, though i'd take the Jorma every time. You can buy this cable new from The Cable Co for $1100 & even try it out to see if you like it!
tompoodie
37 posts
 
Kana, I was also baffled. If you click on the synchromesh reclocker tab, then click options, you will then see "BNC-BNC cable"

Steve, if you are listening out there in cyberspace, it really is kind of confusing. It sure would be user-friendly l if you had a separate button for cable purchase on which to click.
tompoodie
37 posts
 
Kana, I was also baffled. If you click on the synchromesh reclocker tab, then click options, you will then see "BNC-BNC cable"

Steve, if you are listening out there in cyberspace, it really is kind of confusing. It sure would be user-friendly l if you had a separate button for cable purchase on which to click.
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