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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

Showing 3 responses by sunseekerespana

sunseekerespana
12 posts
 
Getting a demo of the CH Precision C1 DAC in a week at home. I will compare it to my Audio Note DAC 5 Special V2. Massively different designs so should be interesting.

I also have the AMR DP-777 DAC / Pre-amp which has an R-2R chip and for the money it is bang on, very smooth and non digital.

I have to admit I am an Audio Note fanboy but willing to be diverted if another DAC sounds right to me.
sunseekerespana
12 posts
 
I look forward to hearing whether the DAC with volume direct approach will sound better than sending the signal through the AN tantalum resistors in the volume control of my zero gain, buffered preamp. It would also be fun to try the Adagio with and without the Final Drive.


Is the no gain pre-amp a passive or have valves as a buffer? I use a passive (pot and source switch only). It works really week, but the thing to watch is the DAC has;

1 Enough gain
2 The output impedance is low (less than 500 ohms) If it is higher along with capacitance in your interconnects you may get loss of dynamics and bass roll off. 
3 You can sit the DAC and Passive Pre very close to the Power Amplifier

I used to have a very good quality tubed pre-amplifier, but without it is faster, more dynamic, more focussed.

sunseekerespana
12 posts
 
CH Precision demo was a disappointment. I fed it via Mac Mini optimised with 12V DC supply and SSD inc Audirvana. The C1 sounded too bright and edgy in the treble region for my tastes. Some smooth tracks sounded very good, but way too many AIFFS were too digital and harsh to enjoy as real music IMO. Maybe it sounds better inc the D1 but that takes it up anther 20K!

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