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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
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,104 posts
 
Funny Matt, as I've been thinking about changing my outlet since the builders outlet is not working properly...surprise surprise!

So this 200 doohickey does the job huh? lol...I'd really have to hear it to believe it. Not saying it doesn't though...
guidocorona
4,114 posts
 
Regen appears to be a jitter control device and an impedance regulator. I suspect it might have somewhat more beneficial effect on DAC USB inputs with lesser jitter control, and with some residual issues in input impedance management.... Of course, I will be delighted to be proven wrong, and aRegan to be revealed as a universal USB input panacea.

Matt, let us know how it works for you.

G.

e
facten
931 posts
 
Modwright Elyse DAC - didn't bother with re-issues supplied with it swapped in NOS Mullard 5AR4 and Siemens 69ss A Frame gold pins. Excellent musicality top my ears
wisnon
700 posts
 
Regen regenerates the USB signal completely with a high signal integrity, so that it does not induce Dac side packet noise. Low signal integrity creates problems in the power distribution network (and PHY) of the USB receiver and hence generates packet noise Dac side.

It should benefit all USB recievers, as this goes beyound galvanic isolation. The music signal itself carries the packet noise (same for ethernet) and this is what induces the similar corresponding noise Dac side.

Low jitter clock and clean PDN are just elements needed for high signal integrity, not the raison d' etre per se.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Oh and yes, impedance lowering is another key as well as matching. that is why version 2 works better. The extra resistors in the new amber regen >3ohms, seem to match the impedance of the cable connecting to the regen better and as a consequence the bass improves. Corning optical/usb cable seemed to have elements of this in its design and was a great match for the older Regen ver 1.
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