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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
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
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
Post removed 
astrostar59
13 posts
 
charles1dad
I can conform the Kassandra is an amazingly musical device, exceptional in the digital world IMO. If anyone is in Spain, I invite them to come to my place and hear it, you will be amazed!

http://www.ariesceratespana.com/
vernonwtx
53 posts
 
@audiolabyrinth4 on 11-05-2018 8:07am "anyone listened to this laufer teknic running direct to amplifier's?"
Yes, I do.  I replaced a Sonic Frontier Line 3 (fully upgraded) in 2010 with the 2010 MP, which was much better.  My 2017 MP64 16-core preamp output was even better than the 2010.  I am waiting on delivery of my 2018 MP64 32-core with solid state / tube switchable preamp section.

ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Vernon, let's talk, lol....  I have the digital pre built in as well as an analog.  I haven't used either yet as I have Vandersteen's and can't use a pre yet...also having an integrated won't allow that either, lol.  If I had an external crossover for the Quatro's, I'd have Sam bring one of his larger amps over the house to try it out that way.  The NEWEST MP is just sick.  I have the FULLY tricked out one. 

As I said earlier, Sam is pulling my internal DAC out to make it a full 3 box solution with the power supplies in a totally separate box.  can't wait.
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