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Another DAC bits and Hz question

For redbook CDs only, why use a DAC greater than 16/44.1 for two-channel?

Redbook CDs are my only source of music in a two-channel system. I use the Oppo 980H because of its video capability and the fact that it is a multi functional player (DVDs for my children and CDs for me). I don’t stream music and I don’t have a blu ray player. From a music playback perspective, I think I’m pretty safe in saying that the source material is 16 / 44.1.

Part of the reason I ask this question is because of the comparison of older DACs to newer ones. My hypothesis is that yesterday’s top DACs will perform just as well for me (given my source material at a bit perfect rate) as today’s DACs. While this might not be true for everyone, I think it might be true for me. Years ago I had a Monarchy Audio DAC in my system. Foolishly, I sold it. If I don't need USB and 24/96, I think I'd rather purchase an older DAC if sound quality isn't sacrificed.

Is my hypothesis reasonable? Or do the newer DACs extract the musical data better today regardless of the bits and Hz perhaps due to better re-clocking or algorithms?

I posted this question over on computeraudiophile, but I think it was the wrong location since I don't stream music or use a computer as the source.
pgawan2b

Showing 2 responses by zd542

zd542
5,339 posts
 
Just to clarify my last post, I wasn't suggesting that you should buy old equipment over new. I just say consider who is making the unit and make sure the analog portion is just as well thought out as the digital section. I don't see why you can't get great sound either way. I guess you could consider my main CD player an older unit (Wadia 861SE). I like it very much and am very happy with it.

Soon, I am really going to try computer audio (the right way and not just playing around with it like I am now.). That means, of course, that I will be buying some "new" gear. I don't know exactly what I will buy only that it will definately be something that Steve N recommends. He's always very helpful with questions and has a vast knowlege and understanding of CA products. (He also has a 30 day money back gaurantee!!)
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"Is my hypothesis reasonable? Or do the newer DACs extract the musical data better today regardless of the bits and Hz perhaps due to better re-clocking or algorithms?

I posted this question over on computeraudiophile, but I think it was the wrong location since I don't stream music or use a computer as the source."

I think you'll be able to work the digital aspect out, whatever you decide to do. In my opinion, I think the biggest mistake people are making today when buying digital products is overlooking the analog section. Just as an example, a brand that I like very much overall is Ayre. A lot of the Ayre house sound that their amps and preamps share carry over to their DAC's and CD players because of how the analog section is designed. If you took just the digital portion of one of their sources and gave it to another company to design the analog section, you would most likely have a very different sounding product.

I think your instincts are right on CA. I have no idea what those people over there are trying to do. Its just one big never ending argument.
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