I've been enjoying Amarra for a few weeks now and now prefer it to Pure and Decibel on my Mac Mini server.
Playback System: I'm running AQ Diamond USB into V-Link 192 into a Stereolab UltraXV cable into a Benchmark DAC1 Pre into the Ref 3.
Playback Files: Various AIFF rips from my vast CD collection, hirez files from 24/88 to 24/192, and my own classical recordings at 24/176. Everything from DCC Nat King Coles to Nils Lofgren Acoustic Live to needledrops of the new Graceland LP.
Very clear and open sounding. Great soundstaging on great files like the new Alison Krauss/Union Station or the Duke Ellington Big Band. Really gets the bass right on Keith Don't Go (I know it's an audiophile cliche but I really like the music and it has been a long term test track).
Ease of use is excellent. No clicks or other digital issues with this software on OSX 10.6.8. Nice integration with latest version of iTunes. I'm loading the songs into memory for playback.
Compared to Decibel, I am hearing more resolution. Compared to Pure, it is very close but Pure might be slightly more forward. Amarra seems a little smoother on my system.
Highly recommended for Mac folks on the forum!
Playback System: I'm running AQ Diamond USB into V-Link 192 into a Stereolab UltraXV cable into a Benchmark DAC1 Pre into the Ref 3.
Playback Files: Various AIFF rips from my vast CD collection, hirez files from 24/88 to 24/192, and my own classical recordings at 24/176. Everything from DCC Nat King Coles to Nils Lofgren Acoustic Live to needledrops of the new Graceland LP.
Very clear and open sounding. Great soundstaging on great files like the new Alison Krauss/Union Station or the Duke Ellington Big Band. Really gets the bass right on Keith Don't Go (I know it's an audiophile cliche but I really like the music and it has been a long term test track).
Ease of use is excellent. No clicks or other digital issues with this software on OSX 10.6.8. Nice integration with latest version of iTunes. I'm loading the songs into memory for playback.
Compared to Decibel, I am hearing more resolution. Compared to Pure, it is very close but Pure might be slightly more forward. Amarra seems a little smoother on my system.
Highly recommended for Mac folks on the forum!