I may be in the minority here, but I honestly don't here a discernible difference between playing a CD on my K-03X directly and using it as a DAC playing the same title ripped via EAC to my server. Throw in the convenience of using Roon or JRiver as the front end GUI and it's somewhat of a no-brainer for me. In either case, the K-03X is the strongest link in the chain and will always be engaged when I'm doing critical listening (I have other DACs and sources).
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Analog: VPI Classic Direct (12" Fatboy) with Ortofon A95 cartridge; Ortofon ST-80SE Transformer; McIntosh C2500.
Digital: SilenZio Gen 3 High Performance Media Server; Esoteric K-03X.
Supporting System: McIntosh MX122 A/V Center; MC205 Amplifier; Bryston 14bSST2 Amplifier; PS Audio P10 Power Reconditioner; Revel Salon 2 Mains; Revel Voice 2 CC; JL Audio f113v2 (2); JL Audio CR-1 Crossover; Focal IC1002 Surrounds
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