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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 

Matt - You are off to a good start.  One thing though.  The audio level on the YouTube video is a bit low.  I have to put my volume slider to the max to hear it well.

You definitely have the right kind of diffusors behind the speakers.  I would be interested in how these speakers work and what all those drivers are.  Also, I would expect more rugs on a hard floor like that.  It must be very live.

Steve N.

Empirical Audio

gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
post comments to ask questions and make suggestions!
Nice room! 

The audio level on the YouTube video is a bit low.

I find the audio level to be fine. The opposite of Steve, meaning I could lower the volume (on a laptop PC with internal speakers) mid way and it's still fine.

randy-11
1,913 posts
 
new Yggy out now...
maplegrovemusic's avatar
maplegrovemusic
1,113 posts
 
Great video. Look forward to seeing and hearing the system. I have to say it was akward watching your feet wiggle throughout the vid.lol
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Sorta did the visible foot wiggle intentionally. I thought it would create a sense of casual welcome, and give a subtle visual cue to connect to my voice.

thanks for the initial comments. The volume seamed ok when I watched it on my phone. But I will be mindful of that.

I have so much to talk about. Please subscribe so I can feel the love. Lol.

ill try to do a few early and quick and then slow down to one a week if I can. 
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