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
LoL,

Correct J,...I was giving the generic answer without confusing nuances and yes, there are many nuances as you rightly pointed out.

I heard the 6 in Europe and the 7 in the US, so not side by side. I think the 6 I heard was tube tricked out, but will confirm later, but the 7 was stock, in terms of tube complement. The 6 was lovely and perhaps more RBCD capable at the moment, but I am all over the place with RBCD, Hirez and DSD.

As a standard,the 6 does NOT have DSD, but as the units are hand built, I think as a special it can be done. My pal will look into adding a DSD module to his 6.

J, have you yet gotten to try an RCA VT-99 in your Dac yet? if so, what was the outcome?
I presume that Bulgarian women are somewhere in the middle like your dac….?

Well, maybe, depends on the mood. :-)

But that is probably true when it comes to the little puppy DSD-S.

When it comes to its big brother DSD-M, I am not exactly sure. :-)

Best,
Alex Peychev
APL Hi-Fi
Wisnon, as reported on the Lampi B6 thread, I tried the RCA VT-99 and it was a disappointment. I will try the Tung-Sol VT-99 one of these days but for now I am very content with the B6 sonics.
Jafox, Hi,may I E-mail you about tubes, I have talked to you briefly before, however, I believe you can help me considering you have told me before that tube rolling has a more profound effect than power cables for a system, I want to try out what you are saying, if it turns out the way you say, I would be for ever grateful of your help, cheers.