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
Metralla - to correct a common misconception. Auto correct corrected my "bated" to "baited". Bated here is a contraction of abated through loss of the unstressed first vowel (a process called aphesis); abate means “reduced, lessened, lowered in force”. So the expression "bated breath" refers to a state in which you almost stop breathing as a result of some strong emotion, such as terror or awe. It's not, as commonly thought, a fishing reference.
Mitch, did you use a remote app to run your mac mojo? Did you use Amarra or another? Thanks.
02-16-15: Mattnshilp writes:
Metralla - to correct a common misconception.
I am under no misconception. I was making a pun on your use of "baited" instead of the correct word. A common error.
Auto correct corrected my "bated" to "baited".
Then control it.

Regards,
Wisnon, What do you think about the music vault that is listed here on audiogon for a good budget player?, seem's it has alot of spec's as good as other top streamer's, however, the designer will build to suite,cheers.
Metralla - I meant no disrespect. I happen to have an intense fascination for the linguistic origin of expressions (and curses). I was just sharing another of my passions. Although I question some of their accuracy, I have amassed a tidy collection of expressions/curse origins. It's fun....

Thanks for posting.