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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
klh007
616 posts
 
I second Vinnie's L2 with DAC option, his DAC seems to perform along the lines of an AQUA Formula, way above the asking price and the DHT preamp is special.
ctsooner
2,480 posts
 
everyone I know who owns his gear loves it.  Cult following.  Another option that isn't in that price range, but easily plays in that league is the new Aesthetix Mimas integrated.  Jim White is a genius in his execution. It is a full on integrated with a DAC card or phono stage.  it's worth a listen. Not the last bastion of detail, but HIGHLY musical, engaging and emotional. 

Matt, could we say the Harbeth of integrated's?  LOL....
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I agree to both options in those price ranges. 

The new Vinnie Rossie stuff is excellent in its price range. And the Mimas punches above its weight. Both are great choices in their class. 
dpac996's avatar
dpac996
676 posts
 
@mattnshilp forgive me if I did not pick it out of this lengthy thread (really wish agon had better inner-thread searching) but have you heard the MSB Discrete DAC? Even with the extra power supply and a quad USB module, the DAC is well under 15K; From the website, this dac appears to deploy the same prime R2R modules (used in all the higher up models);
If anyone here has heard/bought this compelling looking model please chime in. Thank you
mattnshilp OP
917 posts
 
I have not heard any MSB since I heard the DAC V, which I discussed in pages long gone by. Years ago now. 

the new ones are supposedly excellent. 
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