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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
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
Maybe we can arrange a Pre-delivery and then they can come over for the shootout after letting it settle for a week or two, and pick up thereafter. Would be VERY fun!
pokey77
1,260 posts
 
@mattnshilp

It’s a bit quite around here. I wonder what the Doc’s got up his sleeve for us?
xrayz
105 posts
 
Matt,

Since it is slow, I have a question about the Mojo DAC. You said it came with Sorbothane feet under the chassis. Did you try other footers or isolation devices with it? If so, how much did they affect the sound? Thanks a lot.
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
Matt's getting some cool gear in soon...I have a feeling things will pick up quickly after that.  Looks like I'll be getting my The Memory Player with DAC in next week or so.  Can't wait.  I'll be selling the Ayre QX5 most probably, but it's such a GREAT headphone amp that I may need to figure out a way to put it in another room ;)...That's what I love about a DAC that has a streamer built right in.  
ddriveman
171 posts
 
Mattnshilp,

I'm keeping my Zanden. It's one of thise audio units that's a keeper. Allnic is for sale. I understand your thoughts on the DAVE. But the Blu2 adds much more to the DAVE than DAVE itself. The combo Blu2/DAVE with full upsampling to 764kHz turned on is revelutionary. I'm keeping my Zanden's teddy bears (who can give up their teddys) but the Blu2/DAVE combo makes the teddys jump up and dance.
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