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

Showing 8 responses by bill_k

Well now that we have that on good authority it's settled, so we can end any further discussions about such sound quality differences. What a relief! ;~)
@toetapaudio - According the following article Mark Gurvey (Source Systems Ltd.) is apparently the US importer for fidata. https://www.stereophile.com/content/fidata-hfas1-network-audio-servers
Matt - Any update on the performance of the Mojo DAC since you've had it warming up for a week now? I believe it was a reviewed model so it should have already been burned in and just required some time to settle into your system. Thanks and keep up the good work!
I haven't seen any further mention of the Mojo DAC after it was received and reportedly powered up several weeks ago, also curious about it's performance relative to Matt's other contenders. Any update? TIA
@david_ten - If you like NOS PCM DAC designs (no DSD), I suggest you check out the Metrum Acoustics Adagio which is their top of the line. It incorporates a unique volume control implementation which varies the operating voltage of the DAC rather than adding in an additional stage or digitally implemented volume control. It provides a continuous volume control without typical losses or compression most other designs exhibit.

Laufer Teknik has their own showrooms in New Jersey and Connecticut as well as some other dealers. http://www.lauferteknik.com/about/
@toetapaudio - Since you mentioned the NuPrime Evo amps, I wondered whether you have any experience with their new Evolution DAC. I've been seeing some very favorable comments on it but not from anyone having experience with other top tier DACs. TIA!