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 rhljazz

Just curious, I see that you have a serious analog setup, so how close or distant is the difference between your chosen Dac and your analog? Do you still find analog superior or has the gap narrowed?
My VAC 22.1 tubed dac uses the PMD 100 chip also. This approximately 19 year old product sounds more natural then my Oppo 105d which I use mainly as a transport for the VAC.
Not all old digital is surpassed by the latest gear. However, I will say that my Chord Hugo is superior.