2. digital
  3. 1398132150

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
plutos
224 posts
 
Dragon_vibe

Many thanks for a nice and educating review!

In terms of naturalism i think the Merlot is on par with very top R2R leagues.
Do you mean TOTALDAC by top R2R?
dragon_vibe
430 posts
 
Yes Total is very good and so are a few others. With Total DAC I find the build quality a little less pleasing. However in terms of SQ they are up their with the very best.
pokey77
1,260 posts
 
" Above all I want to cry and only some systems can acheve this." I find this comment refreshing and honest. Being moved by the music is the whole reason to listen in the first place.
reverendo
88 posts
 
how does the Merlot compare to the MPS-5? The latter I know and compared side-by-side with the original DaVinci. Just wanted to get an idea.
best
wisnon
700 posts
 
I have heard the PBD many times. The GG is dead quiet in my system and is far better at DSD. No DSD has so far come close to the Lampi. My GG even has the R2R DSD256 and separate DSD512 engine. The latter is much better. Oh, I have the superclocks too.
More to discover