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IPod to home stereo - How to get best sound?

I have a 160 Gb Classic iPod, almost full, with mostly AIFF files, and want to play back through a $50K home stereo.

Should I reload the iPod from ITunes with Apple Lossless?

What docks, D to A converters, optical or rca cables, remotes etc. have you tried and gotten great results with.

I have only used the Apple dock, with Monster connector kit RCA's into my Pass Labs X1.

NEED SUGGESTIONS or suggested sites that will get me there? Do not want to spend more than $2K.
don_c55
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
The best sound is using Wadia 170 or equivalent and then a good reclocker then the DAC.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
facten
2,726 posts
 
I have a 160 as well, use WAV encoder setting to import both cds and itunes purchases. use a Wadia 171 (newer model) and run that into my Blue Circle 509 DAC - cable between them is a Silnote Audio Poseidon digital rca - very happy with the outcome
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
Wadia iTransport + CI Audio PSU + good coax

But I think you are paying a premium for that even if it is under your budget.

Also have a look at Onkyo S1 dock with a Kingrex PSU would be a more cost effective solution.

If it were me, I'd use your PC or Mac to the DAC. I really like using Amarra and Pure Music on my Mac.
rpssb
11 posts
 
I use a Wadia i- transport with battery power supply - pace car - DAC of your choice on one system and a fully modded ASI-TEK wadia i-transport on a second system ...both with excellent results
antigrunge
74 posts
 
Fully reclocked Asi -Tek/Wadia i-transport with Acoustic Revive SP/DIF cable into quality DAC (I use Antelope Zodiac Gold). Do though consider using a Mac Mini with Puremusic via USB for even better results.
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