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 1 response by bhobba

'OK, let the criticism begin!!! lol....'

I muck around with, listen to, and have heard a lot of DAC's.

There is no right or wrong, simply what suits you and your system best.

My favourite DAC (at the moment - things change fast in the DAC area) is a hand build DAC called a Killer. But it is very musical and that is not everyone's preference - some are in my camp - others prefer say the extremely clear, clean, and pure Phasure which I find a bit bland.

A DAC that impressed me recently was the PS Audio - it blew my Chord out of the water - but it was a lot more expensive so that's not an earth shattering revelation - you would hope you get something for the extra dosh. It is going to be upgraded to the Direct Stream soon and we will be having a GTG to see how it fares against some of my other DAC's such as the Playback Designs and Killer.

Always a lot of fun.

Anyway by checking them out and posting about it you are doing the right thing. Keep up the good work.

Thanks
Bill