Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

George,
The system I heard these 2 DACs directly compared consisted of the
Absolare Passion Signature preamplifier
Krell FPB 600 mono blocks
Rockport Altair speakers
Velodyne subwoofers x 2.

Obviously we both heard the two DACs in very fine audio systems
What’s interesting is that the sonic attributes you heard that favored the TotalDac over the Bricasti M1 SE is the opposite of our findings. The Bricasti was noticeably more dynamic,energetic and alive sounding.

In direct comparison the TotalDac was smooth but polite and subdued (relatively speaking). The Bricasti had the better musical flow and pace which was very engaging. I have to say it was also at the same time more organic/natural. Overall clearly the better sounding DAC. Both were use via ethernet and attention was paid to matching levels.

In absolute terms the TotalDac was quite good but the Bricasti was the superior sounding DAC head to head.
Charles

Yep,
Different groups of listeners, ears,systems etc. Contrasting opinions are nothing new within  the niche of High End audio. I don’t question either group of listener’s conclusions. All of us just report honestly what we hear. Both DACs have happy and loyal owners. Certainly experienced audiophiles and music lovers comprised both groups.
Charles

"I have faith in the average audiophile" Elizabeth,  I share that faith. 
I assume that the thread participants are adults capable of independently forming their own judgements.  The  repetitive dogmatic   approach can alienate and thus be unintentionally counterproductive.  
Charles 

Hi Joe,
Have you heard the Denafrips?
Will it replace your PS Audio DS?
You have very good ears and taste, thus my curiosity 😊

Matt,
I look forward to your Lampizator Pacifica/Davinci DAC comparison.  I suspect this will be a very enjoyable and informative task.
Charles 

Joe,
I know that you live in the NYC  area and very likely have access to hear the T+A DAC 8. If you do get an opportunity to hear this or the Denafrips Terminator please share your listening impressions. 

When people write comments such as "We have found nothing under 10K that  can touch it"  this enters the realm of hyperbole,  whether intentional or not.
Charles 

Ctsooner,
Yes we all have come across audio components that we find consistently very good sounding and we like to  share this with others. I don’t question that Audiotroy finds the T+A DAC sounds impressive. However rarely do I find the following phrases to apply when comparing high quality components.
"Nothing touches it"
"Blew the others away"
"Smoked everything "
"Made the other sound broken"

Of course I hear differences and prefer one component over a competitor when comparing but not to the degree of the above often used phrases I listed..YMMV.
Charles

Hi Thieliste,
No doubt that TotalDac model is true SOTA. Of all the uber tier DACs discussed here and elsewhere I find the Aries Cerat Kassandra extremely compelling. I just love the design concept and approach to this DAC. It just seems like the type of component that is meant to go directly and deep into one’s musical soul and communicate much passion and emotion. In my humble opinion products capable of achieving this are the most desirable. I haven’t heard it but I can appreciate astrostar’s comments. My gut feeling is this DAC  is the antithesis of clinical/analytical/sterile lifeless sound.
Charles