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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
paul79
173 posts
 
Agear,

Yes, Totaldac Server is about $5K all in, with DSD. You are not just getting a server though, you get the Reclocker too. The Server is a module added (heavily shielded/modded Cubox Quad Core, with custom power supply on a board) to the Reclocker, and you still have all the inputs of the Reclocker at your disposal.

So, you can get the best from a CD Transport, or whatever other digital source you want to throw on there.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 

The Totaldac Server looks to also be R-2R resistor ladder Multibit convertor just like their Totaldac is, this may explain why it sound so good, when compared to Delta Sigma type convertors.

Cheers George
wisnon
700 posts
 
Matt these Graham Audio "BBC" speakers come highly recommended! €8K I think and the feedback is EXCELLENT!
Muniuch 2015 showroom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1wx_Uzm-WQ
wisnon
700 posts
 
Oh, and front ported too!
paul79
173 posts
 
BTW, I am looking for a nice CD Transport to play with... Redbook only Is just fine with me here.

Any recommendations? Looking for around $2K tops.... Now it is going to go through the reclocker, but this only attenuates jitter, so the digital source still matters.
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