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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

Showing 2 responses by audioman58

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,316 posts
 
The absolute best buy is the  $2300 Schiit audio s new dac .I cannot spell it but Yagsdradall is close ,go to Computer Audiophile review no $15000 dac is better. If you only gave half that 
The  $1,200 Multibit Gungnir is 90% as good  
Which I own. If I can afford theit flagship later in the year 
I will buy it. Both are class leaders and exceptional huys.
audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,316 posts
 
Playback designs  has been up sampling  DSD for a long time and makes a great dac. I have the ps audio direct stream also converts everything to upsampled DSD and sounds very good. 
A dedicated player- server is essential .you don't want a standard computer inducing all that noise . Aurender, and Antipods look to be 
top tier machines.
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