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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
 
Agear - 15'x18.5'x9'

The MM3 did not, in fact, overload the room at all. They are sealed, powered woofers. The restriction was placement only. When I dialed them in they were stunning. I just didn't like the 6'x6'x6' triangle that worked best with my short room. The 15' width is not the issue, it's the 18.5' length.

I need to find time to get to the Ra to get a feel. I am trying to get my ears on the Joseph Pearl 3 and the Avalons as well. I found the speakers, I just need the time to get to them to hear them.

Wisnon - thanks for the list of eclectics. I research and look into every one of them.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
Thanks Erik. I heard JBL's at Newport. Interesting. I'll look for a local dealer.
agear
1,353 posts
 
I see Matt. That's too bad. The MM line is nice, and they are not gurly mon speakers as I think Mike is implying here:

08-03-15: Mikelavigne
Matt,

.... the MM3's are 'big-boy' speakers and a hard act to follow.

i owned Kharma Exquisite Reference 1D's for 3 years, then had other Kharma's. they very much remind me of the Martin Coltrane. i also owned Marten Dukes. then eventually i ended up with the EA MM3's for 5 years. i can see where those speakers do come close to the MM3's in some ways, but are not quite capable of the whole picture. they have that transparent and refined ceramic mid-range, and that 'Kharma' coherence. but they don't quite get the total weight and tone in the mid range of the MM3's since they don't quite have the heft in the bottom end.

I have had near field setups in smaller rooms in the past, and while they work, its not completely satisfying irregardless of the speaker.
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
TBG - what other speakers were on your short list before jumping on the BMC wagon?
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt,

My pleasure. I see that you do look into everything and that is satisfying to me, as you give a fast and honest assessment against your wants and needs.

Good fun and we all get to see and mull over new discoveries.
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