Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

The problem with USB is two-fold:

1) common-mode noise on the cable that is not completely rejected by the USB receiver

2) poor software on the server device

#1 can be mitigated with filters or galvanic isolation. I have done both.

#2 can be mitigated by using a Linux-based server properly configured with good playback software and CODECs

Short of doing both of these, you will have some sonic issues with USB

If you do both, it will be identical in performance to Ethernet renderer, assuming both are implemented similarly. Implementation is everything.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

Audioengr, question for you, Are you going to build a streamer?, one with balanced out's and a volume control is what I need!, to be used straight to amplification, an analog quality volume control would be sufficent, let's talk about this, an all in one box solution like this would win!

I have been auditioning speakers in the city and had the opportunity to hear some ultra $$$ DAC's as well. I will be hearing a few more in the next few weeks also.

It's SO hard to isolate the performance of an individual component when listening to completely different systems in completely different rooms. But in the end I can give a nod to all of the upstream components if the system engages me and does what it is supposed to.

All were the top level product of their brand: Meridian, Emm Labs, DCS, MSB. I could see any of them in my system but Meridian and DCS both require multi component systems to get the most out of them, while MSB and Meitner are standalone DACs. I will be hearing the CH Design DAC/streamer next Monday along with equally esoteric and expensive speakers.

What I am coming away with is that for most of us, spending $25-75k on digital is not just unrealistic, but unwise. If you spend that money on speakers, amps, preamps or an analog table/rig can last forever and will never truly be outdated. While even the most sophisticated digital nay sound great forever, it will likely be replaced by something better and be outdated within 5 years.

And the Dac of the future will unquestionably directly link to and control an Ethernet NAS drive.

We are at a technological crossroads for DAC's. I think things will change dramatically in the next few years.

And did anyone else just hear that Jay Z's investment company just bought TIDAL streaming????

Oops. Type.
Spending $25-$75k is not realistic.
Lol

Not so sure that Ethernet connection will last. Too many pitfalls connecting to a NAS(ty) for ultimate performance.

Drive capacity goes up as prices fall.

Who wouldnt like their entire library in the top pocket for absolute total mobility?

My 2cents