Reference level DAC + Streamer

I was able to AB the Ayon S5 against the Lumin S1 and the Ayon was the clear winner.

The Ayre QX-5 that looks like a nice machine.
How about the Esoteric N-05 coupled with the Metronome Technologie C8+ ?

I don't think Cary Audio makes reference level gear ?

Ok guys here is a list of brands that make reference level DACs and streamers :

MSB
CH Precision
Playback Design
Totaldac
DCS
Lampizator
APL IHFI
Esoteric
Vitus
Ayre
Metronome Technologie
Ayon
Lumin
Aurender
Amare Musica
Sound Galleries SGM 2015

Please feel free to share your experience with the higher end products of these brands and add some others that you know.
Some of these products are extremely expensive and not always worth it therefore let's discuss about them.

I concur but someone using $50K worth of amps might not be using a $2K DAC in his system just to give an example.
Coherence in gear choice is very important in one's system.

josh as i understand you use your Totaldac as a volume control directly to your amp for the moment.
What other gear do you have in your system ?

joshfilm i concur the Totaldac d1-twelve (4 boxes) is what i've heard best so far, very organic and analog.
This one is in first place on my short list for the DAC-streaming part of my future system.
I yet have to audition the CH Precision and the MSB Diamond V.
Luckily the only CH dealer in my country is just an hour drive from my place therefore a home audition can be arranged.

josh do you think you could improve if you find a very good preamp ?

In the Antipodes DX category of streamers you also have the Esoteric N-05 and the Amare Musica Diamond.

I know the Bel Canto Black and auditioned it but for an audiophile anthusiast like me and most us on this forum the idea of having an all in one system like the Black or Devialet will never be something i will consider.
I not saying the Bel Canto Black is not good but it will suit more people who couldn't care less taking the time to build an all separates system.

Or CH Precision C1+X1.

Problem with Totaldac Twelve 4 boxes is you have to cope with so many cables.

Aqua Formula and Lampizator Golden Gate.

Hey paul79 thanks for your input, the Totaldac Twelve + server is the one i will choose if i decide to go for the Ypsilon system.
If i decide to go CH Precision route than it's going to be a full CH system.
I'm in France therefore too far to visit you unfortunately.

Hi Mike, yes i'm aware Kedar told me about your combo and audition at your studio.
I will try do go to Monaco to audition this combo when i have time.