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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 4 responses by lordcloud

lordcloud
155 posts
 
Minus the ridiculous political diversions, this is an amazing thread.

I particularly love that it has survived (audio related) diversions and been nothing but informative and entertaining. I’m very much wanting to hear more of everyone’s opinions and experiences with their dacs. My Balanced Pagoda isn’t up there with the big boys, but it’s still great to hear what everyone’s opinions are on differing face and the like.

Thanks guys!
lordcloud
155 posts
 
Piano is one of the main things I use when evaluating a system/component/change in my system. Particularly for imaging. If a system can't put a piano together seamlessly, front to back and side to side, then I know there's work to do still. 
lordcloud
155 posts
 
Great videos!

Good lord thank you for wearing socks.
lordcloud
155 posts
 
Has the Rockna been discussed? Not the older one with the inferior MSB solution, but the newer version with their own decoding? I've heard almost nothing but good things about it, and it is praised by many as one of the best dacs you can buy. 

Does anyone have any experience with it? Especially compared to the usual suspects (MSB, DCS, etc.)?
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