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
05-28-14: Audioengr
Shaw - I have not heard the new Directstream, but I have heard the Vivaldi in two different rooms at RMAF. The Overdrive beats it IMO. The Analog DAC was compared in the latest Overdrive review. The Overdrive beat it according to the reviewer. I have heard the Wavelength, Berkeley, Ayre, Chord Qute, and Bryston. Overdrive beats all of these. My roommate used the Lampi7 in his room in Chicago Axpona. He says the Overdrive beats it too. I have not heard the top of line Resonessence or the Bricasti yet.
Audioengr, Bravo!
I just got tracking #'s and confirmation from Steve at Empirical Audio that my OverDrive SE and other goodies are in route via 2-day air!

Yay!!!!
Actually I was able to save you some money and do 3-day. I thought I had missed the UPS driver, but he appeared really late. It should be there on Friday.

Steve N.
Can't wait. Looking forward to trying out the other gear as well. Thanks!

As much as I love my preamp, I'd love to go DAC direct to amps. But my preamp gives me magic I have yet to beat with a direct run.