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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
erikminer
433 posts
 
My point exactly Matt! My example is I was using an Audioquest Diamond USB cable, highly reviewed and from what was written a great sounding cable.. but I wasn't sure after a few months of listening.. A friend suggested that I try a Wireworld Platinum Eclipse.. Based on the reviews I figured the Wireworld wouldn't be as good a match, boy was I wrong.. In My System. the Wireworld trounced the Audioquest.. and sounded nothing like what various reviewers said about it.

Matt what I would strongly recommend is that once you settle on equipment more or less, that you borrow some cables from The Cable Company.. I think you'll find it really enlightening and far less expensive than buying, trying and then selling..
mattnshilp OP
894 posts
 
My 8 meter Shunyata ZiTron Anaconda S XLR purchase was through The Cable Company. I do plan on using them again. Great service, great communication. I am a huge fan of Shunyata. I'd love to try their top tier speaker wire as their interconnects and power cords & conditioners really make me smile.

I'm also intrigued by some of the Synergistic more esoteric room treatments and they let you try and return at The Cable Company. But I need to stabilize more concrete factors before playing with doodads and thingies. All in due time.

Looking forward to the Irvine show. Looks like it will be rather large with 10 floors of rooms. I only have 2 days and can't imagine I'll be able to do it all in just 2 days. But it's a fun challenge.
ctsooner's avatar
ctsooner
2,104 posts
 
Great challenge Matt....lol
aolmrd1241
759 posts
 
Hey Matt,quick question. How does your turntable/analog setup sound compared to your digital rig? Do you have a preference for one over the other? Thanks...
agear
1,353 posts
 
I'm also intrigued by some of the Synergistic more esoteric room treatments and they let you try and return at The Cable Company. But I need to stabilize more concrete factors before playing with doodads and thingies. All in due time.

tweaks are the cutting edge of audio IMO and where all the fun is. Norman and others are foaming at the mouth for these doodads: http://www.stereotimes.com/accZiplex112811.shtml
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