Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

I suggest that much dissatisfaction with digital ( and I'm not saying analog may not be better) is with the front ends folks use.. I'm convinced that a Mac Mini, or an old cd player as transport just doesn't get it. I recently switched to the relatively inexpensive Aurender N100H and the difference between that and an Auralic Aries is shocking. I think that anyone who's trying to do a state or edge of the art digital front end needs to at least consider where the digits are coming from. Comparing a really good TT setup with a really good cartridge to a OK digital setup isn't really fair. To Matt I'd say you really need to get an Aurender to listen to. Mac Mini is ok but nowhere near cutting edge, not close. The Audender W20 would be the one but theres the new N10 or even an N100H would work.. I think you'll be very surprised..

I spoke with the guys at Aurender at THE Newport show and every one of them said the new N10 is actually better then their older top tier W20....

I'm still working on speakers and room treatments. I'll start trying a few music servers when I hit that point. But I have to say I have spoken to several (read many many) guys at the shows and most said that their computer sounded as good or better then the Aurender, Antipodes, Etc that they compared them with. I reserve judgement for my own ears when the opportunity comes.

I'm not surprised that "Guys" have said their computer is as good or better.. What are they going to say :-)

Bob V. is now an Aurender dealer.. I'm sure he'll hook you up.. And I wouldn't be surprised if the new N10 sounds better.. The Aurender guys are pretty on the ball..

With the speed at which the music servers are advancing, I just can't justify spending $10k ++ on something that will be improved upon within 2 years.

I have to say that Antipodes seams to lag behind Aurender in terms of product production. Lumin and Aurender seam to produce new product as the technology advances. I like that.

I'm not ready for that just yet. But I'm get close.....

Carpet is out and they are putting in the new floor as I type. Carpenter coming tomorrow to replace the molding and then I start again. It took me 2+ hours to break the room down, and a serious back ache. It'l probably take me a bit less time to put it back since I went out and got some extra slider and gliders.

The Marten Coltrane Tenors arrived today. Lawrence Double Bass on July 1st and the Boenicke will be here on July 3rd. Hansen Prince E's are already here.

I'm dying to hear how the Muzik's sound with the vinyl floor and compare them all. With a list like this, I have to find something I like and will work well in the room. The only other pair I am seriously considering are the Perfect8's.

Fun fun fun.