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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
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
992 posts
 
Hi Scott,
1. What happens to 24/192 data after transmission from the CAT to the DAC which supports sampling rates up to the maximum of 176.4?
2. Can the CAT output to any other dac or is it, by virtue of its single output which is usb, limited only to the CAD DAC?
3. My conclusion is that the CAT cannot function as a stand-alone transport without the DAC. Is this correct?

Best regards. J.
wisnon
700 posts
 
Thanks for the comment Scott.

For me, the beauty of the card solution is the non-shifting data, the ability to handle data rapidly and most importantly, the ability to travel with your ENTIRE music collection in your wallet. Ultimate MOBILITY!

Price? just give it 2 years….

The tech is reminiscent or the Porzilli "Memory Player".

Keep on making your good stuff. Knowledgeable people (in the industry) have given your products the thumbs up.
computer_audio_design's avatar
computer_audio_design
8 posts
 
Hi Scott,
1. What happens to 24/192 data after transmission from the CAT to the DAC which supports sampling rates up to the maximum of 176.4?
2. Can the CAT output to any other dac or is it, by virtue of its single output which is usb, limited only to the CAD DAC?
3. My conclusion is that the CAT cannot function as a stand-alone transport without the DAC. Is this correct?

1) The CAT will downsample the 192KHz to 176.4Khz (or any other frequency you would like)

2) The CAT can be used with any USB DAC. We also have some people using it as a high quality audio / CD ripper Ethernet server. Any digital device that uses Ethernet streaming can use the CAT. So you could use one CAT to connect up to both a USB DAC and another "streamer".

3) Correct. There is no Digital to Analog converter inside the CAT

Best Regards,
Scott
www.computeraudiodesign.com
jon2020's avatar
jon2020
992 posts
 
Thanks, Scott; for clearing the air.
Your answer to Q2 makes the CAT more desirable now.
Cheers! J.
ricevs
1,543 posts
 
Have you guys read this? : http://www.soundstageultra.com/index.php/equipment-menu/528-devialet-400-mono-integrated-amplifier-dacs

He even likes the $6500 one better than anything he has heard on his Magicos. A DAC, a preamp, an amp...all in one.

Why would you not try it if you could afford to? Never heard it myself but I certainly would try it if I had the money.
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