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  1. #1

    In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Hi All,

    Forgive me for not saying a formal hello in the introduction thread, but I won't be participating much arounf here in the various areas. (Just sort of in and out on occasion).


    I’m in market for either a CD player or Transport DAC combo for a home system. (Not interested in portable or desktop computer systems).
    I currently have a Marantz CD5003…I think, could be a 5004, I think they are on number 5005 now or something. I don’t know it changes every 6 months. It is a good player and I am keeping it for another system.
    That said, I want to see if I can get something a bit nicer for the current system I am working on, if possible. (I may find the Marantz a small challenge to beat, but I want to explore options). I’m not telling what other gear I have as it is irrelevant.
    While I love my vinyl records and prefer them, I do have around 900 CDs, which is mostly comprised of stuff not available on vinyl and the rare “just better produced” than what is available on vinyl….rare, but it happens.

    Anyway, my budget is up to a max of around $1000 (give or take). I can’t use top-loaders because it is going into a shelf rack, so I need either a drawer load (preferable) or a slot load. I can handle any ports (unbalanced, balanced, coax, toslink).

    So what can I do for a CD player or Transport/Dac combo within my budget? (Transport and DAC do not have to be the same brand).
    I am not concerned with SACD ability, nor am I concerned about MQA, DSD or what have you. I don’t use Tidal or NAS and such, so no concerns there either. (I do use Spotify for background and research).
    Of course, I realize I will get 99% opinion, but that is the point. It can give ideas or help me narrow the field.


    Thank you

  2. #2
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Welcome to the forum, thank you for joining.
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  3. #3
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Submit your contact info at the Oppo site in the event they decide to do a final production run on their UDP-205. You might get lucky. Oppo price prior to withdrawal was $1299. They're now going for up to $3000 on the black market. In the specified price range, a single box solution is the way to go.

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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    given your budget and CD only, one word ........ Rotel
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  5. #5

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Yamaha CD-S700 $799

    Onkyo C-7030 transport $199 + Schiit Gungnir DAC $849

  6. #6

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by GSOphile View Post
    Submit your contact info at the Oppo site in the event they decide to do a final production run on their UDP-205. You might get lucky. Oppo price prior to withdrawal was $1299. They're now going for up to $3000 on the black market. In the specified price range, a single box solution is the way to go.
    Yes, I have been thinking about Oppo and I did submit my info to them about a month ago. $1300 is pushing the envelope, but if it was the ultimate machine, I'd pull a muscle making the stretch to get one. I was looking at the 203, but it is a totally different sonic animal, the 205 is better. However, if they do decide to do a final run, I'm sure it will be at black market prices because of its scheduled obscurity. Upon further thinking it makes less sense to get the Oppo strictly for CD playback. Multi-taskers usually don't hold up well. If I did get one I would use for more than CD of course. Then there is the lack of warranty and service to consider.
    So I concluded that the Oppo is a mixed bag, though still appealing.

  7. #7

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Thank you for all the suggestions so far. I do have the Rotel RCD 1572 on the list and the Yamaha CD-S700.
    I had not considered the Onkyo because I have had poor performance from their CD players in past. I'll look into the one listed though and the Schiit dac of course.

    My question is in the suggestions so far, what makes any of them a step up from the Marantz? I'm not challenging anything, all fine suggestions to look into, but I did ask originally about getting something a bit better than my Marantz 5003. So I am just wondering in what ways any of these suggestions thus far are a step up. Is it the transport? The dac implementation? The build?
    It is that info that seems to be elusive.

  8. #8
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post

    My question is in the suggestions so far, what makes any of them a step up from the Marantz? I'm not challenging anything, all fine suggestions to look into, but I did ask originally about getting something a bit better than my Marantz 5003. So I am just wondering in what ways any of these suggestions thus far are a step up. Is it the transport? The dac implementation? The build?
    It is that info that seems to be elusive.
    the Marantz is no longer being produced I believe, regardless I've owned the Rotel in a second system of mine for many years, performs flawlessly every time with the super fast load time.
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  9. #9

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Mikado463 View Post
    the Marantz is no longer being produced I believe, regardless I've owned the Rotel in a second system of mine for many years, performs flawlessly every time with the super fast load time.
    The Marantz is still being produced indeed, it is just called the CD5005 now, which just means my 5003 is two years old.
    I do like the looks and all of the Rotel, not to mention the reputation. I just don't have any details on what makes it different (outside of looks) and an upgrade from the Marantz, if it is, out of curiosity.
    That is the info I am seeking on all the machines on my list: Which are upgrades and why?

  10. #10
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    Yes, I have been thinking about Oppo and I did submit my info to them about a month ago. $1300 is pushing the envelope, but if it was the ultimate machine, I'd pull a muscle making the stretch to get one. I was looking at the 203, but it is a totally different sonic animal, the 205 is better. However, if they do decide to do a final run, I'm sure it will be at black market prices because of its scheduled obscurity. Upon further thinking it makes less sense to get the Oppo strictly for CD playback. Multi-taskers usually don't hold up well. If I did get one I would use for more than CD of course. Then there is the lack of warranty and service to consider.
    So I concluded that the Oppo is a mixed bag, though still appealing.
    Prior to buying my Esoteric, I had a UDP-205 in my system for a few days playing CDs. Excellent player. Heavy duty construction with build quality equal to or better than players costing 2-3 times the 205's MRSP (e.g., other premium players are using the Oppo 20x transport). If I'm not mistaken, Oppo has said they will honor existing warranty commitments.

  11. #11
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    I owned a Marantz SA8005. It was/is fantastic. Sold to a club member and he is loving it. I picked up an Oppo for a "special purpose" since I rarely if ever spin disks any more. The Marantz was a better pure music player in my view, also can be used as a solid DAC. They sell for $1199.
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  12. #12

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    I owned a Marantz SA8005. It was/is fantastic. Sold to a club member and he is loving it. I picked up an Oppo for a "special purpose" since I rarely if ever spin disks any more. The Marantz was a better pure music player in my view, also can be used as a solid DAC. They sell for $1199.
    Yes, I have the SA8005 on the list too, but not sure I would use it to its full potential as I have no SACDs and won't be getting any and I don't buy music files or anything except vinyl records and CDs (and CD buying is waning severely these days). The Marantz is no slouch, that's for sure, but it doesn't have balanced ports, then again I'm not sure I'd notice the benefit of balanced unless I was noticing interference or noise from the player.

  13. #13

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Ah yes, I wish I had the scratch for an Esoteric, if nothing else it is a beautiful looking machine.

  14. #14
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    ModWright's two favorite players to custom modify are the Oppo UDP-205 and the Marantz 8005, which, IMO, says a lot about the quality of these two machines.

  15. #15
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    If you like your 5003 seems logical just to move up the Marantz line. My impression is Marantz pretty much dominates that under $1k player market.

    I like the Schiit suggestion. That combo would be more neutral than your 5003 yet remain musical. If you haven't yet, read about their bit technology. The Schiit DAC's perform beyond their price range.
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    One thing that I would add... you say you have no interest in SACD. I would highly encourage you to try one.... but be warned, there is no turning back... when you go down the DSD rabbit hole... so much to the point that it has led me to buying a DAC that specializes in DSD, purchasing HQPlayer and upsampling all of my music to DSD512.

    It all started from getting a couple SACDs... yea they are that good compared to their CD versions.
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  17. #17

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    If you like your 5003 seems logical just to move up the Marantz line. My impression is Marantz pretty much dominates that under $1k player market.

    I like the Schiit suggestion. That combo would be more neutral than your 5003 yet remain musical. If you haven't yet, read about their bit technology. The Schiit DAC's perform beyond their price range.
    That makes sense, although, I do like the build of the 5003 and all, I was hoping for something different than just moving up the Marantz line, not that there is anything wrong with that (especially considering Modwright's position on Marantz....I would never have anything modded though, but that is irrelevant).

    Now I am thinking if I have to stay in Marantz (although I am strongly considering Rotel and Yamaha as well) I wonder if I decide down the road to get a seperate DAC, I need to figure out if there would be a way to bypass the DAC in the player. Not saying that would happen, just thinking out loud.

  18. #18

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    One thing that I would add... you say you have no interest in SACD. I would highly encourage you to try one.... but be warned, there is no turning back... when you go down the DSD rabbit hole... so much to the point that it has led me to buying a DAC that specializes in DSD, purchasing HQPlayer and upsampling all of my music to DSD512.

    It all started from getting a couple SACDs... yea they are that good compared to their CD versions.
    Well, I have no doubt they are fantastic, no question there, its just that there is nothing on SACD I want. Most dacs today handle DSD, it is almost standard, even on a couple of sub $1k dacs. If I end up with a player that handles SACD, no worries, I just don't think I will ever use that ability unless they come out with an SACD I want, but I don't see that happening sadly. I do see a couple of Rush SACDs out there, but only one can I afford and it is not my first choice in the Rush discography, but then I am a big fan anyway. The problem is that the rest of the discography is not on SACD. I have other favorites, but they all sound best on vinyl....I digress.

  19. #19
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Hi, these days it's difficult to find a player where you can't bypass the internal DAC. When reading features you should see terms like; optical out, toslink out, coaxial out, etc. In other words to bypass th internal DAC just use one of the digital outputs on the back into the external DAC.

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    That makes sense, although, I do like the build of the 5003 and all, I was hoping for something different than just moving up the Marantz line, not that there is anything wrong with that (especially considering Modwright's position on Marantz....I would never have anything modded though, but that is irrelevant).

    Now I am thinking if I have to stay in Marantz (although I am strongly considering Rotel and Yamaha as well) I wonder if I decide down the road to get a seperate DAC, I need to figure out if there would be a way to bypass the DAC in the player. Not saying that would happen, just thinking out loud.
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  20. #20
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    I have had several Audio Club Buddies, who are huge vinyl fans, say without reservation, that my digital setup will compete with any of their turntables, without the hassle. But that is neither here nor there.

    There is a huge selection of SACDs (and their digital download partners, DSD) available. I cannot find every single album I used to love and cherish, but a surprising amount. Check out Acoustic Sounds, or even Mobile Fidelity.

    The bottom line, SACD/DSDs are out there.... you may not see them in your local store, but they certainly are easy enough to find.

    I can find virtually anything I want in other high resolution digital downloads, HD Tracks, Acoustic Sounds, etc., so there is a huge selection of virtually any kind of music you prefer in high res downloads and many of which are available in DSD.

    Bottom line, your playback preference is what matters. If you prefer vinyl that is fine, but please don't say it is because what is available in high res and DSD is limited. I believe even my CD rips sound as good if not better when played through HQPlayer, upsampled and converted through my T+A. If you prefer vinyl it is because you prefer vinyl, not because it sounds better or that music can not be found in digital formats...
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  21. #21
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    SimAudio Moon 260 DT - you can thank me later.
    McIntosh/Sonus Faber/SimAudio, Woo Audio and Sennheiser stuff.

  22. #22

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    Well, I have no doubt they are fantastic, no question there, its just that there is nothing on SACD I want. Most dacs today handle DSD, it is almost standard, even on a couple of sub $1k dacs. If I end up with a player that handles SACD, no worries, I just don't think I will ever use that ability unless they come out with an SACD I want, but I don't see that happening sadly. I do see a couple of Rush SACDs out there, but only one can I afford and it is not my first choice in the Rush discography, but then I am a big fan anyway. The problem is that the rest of the discography is not on SACD. I have other favorites, but they all sound best on vinyl....I digress.
    I hardly ever play CDs anymore as all my CDs have been ripped and stored in a NAS. But if I were in the market for a CD player today I would not buy anything that cannot do SACDs. Not having SACD capability will definitely limit the value of the unit in the future if you ever want to sell it.

    That said, of the units mentioned, my vote goes to the Oppo 205.

  23. #23

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    I have had several Audio Club Buddies, who are huge vinyl fans, say without reservation, that my digital setup will compete with any of their turntables, without the hassle. But that is neither here nor there.

    There is a huge selection of SACDs (and their digital download partners, DSD) available. I cannot find every single album I used to love and cherish, but a surprising amount. Check out Acoustic Sounds, or even Mobile Fidelity.

    The bottom line, SACD/DSDs are out there.... you may not see them in your local store, but they certainly are easy enough to find.

    I can find virtually anything I want in other high resolution digital downloads, HD Tracks, Acoustic Sounds, etc., so there is a huge selection of virtually any kind of music you prefer in high res downloads and many of which are available in DSD.

    Bottom line, your playback preference is what matters. If you prefer vinyl that is fine, but please don't say it is because what is available in high res and DSD is limited. I believe even my CD rips sound as good if not better when played through HQPlayer, upsampled and converted through my T+A. If you prefer vinyl it is because you prefer vinyl, not because it sounds better or that music can not be found in digital formats...
    I don't know why or where you got that this is about vinyl vs CD vs digital, etc. In my world obviously, there is plenty of room for both. I do not have a DAC capable of High-rez or DSD, etc. It is not important to me right now. If I happen to get one down the road, then wonderful, I certainly would not avoid such a thing. (Actually, it is next to impossible to avoid DSD capable DACS these days, even the lowest priced ones now have that ability. Again, I don't see why one would want to avoid anyway).
    Sure, I don't buy music "files" for a few reasons, but none of them have to do with sound quality.
    If I ran across a SACD that was say one of my all time favorite albums and was reasonably priced to me (assuming I had the playback ability), I would definitely pick it up. I have looked at those places you listed, but have not found any SACD versions of my favorites, at in a cursory search. If I end up with SACD ability, I will take a deeper look.

  24. #24

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by DogsPart2 View Post
    SimAudio Moon 260 DT - you can thank me later.
    Beautiful looking player and no doubt a performer, but well out of my financial range

  25. #25

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by nicoff View Post
    I hardly ever play CDs anymore as all my CDs have been ripped and stored in a NAS. But if I were in the market for a CD player today I would not buy anything that cannot do SACDs. Not having SACD capability will definitely limit the value of the unit in the future if you ever want to sell it.

    That said, of the units mentioned, my vote goes to the Oppo 205.
    I don't sell gear. I buy gear to use and I hope to last a long time (realistically), so I do not worry about resell value. I have no issue if whatever I end up with can do SACD. I'm not opposed, I just don't know if I would ever have the need, but if I do then there I have it.

  26. #26

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Here is my short list so far:
    Marantz CD5005 (clone of what I already have if I must)
    Marantz SA8005
    Marantz HD-CD1
    Marantz ND8006
    Yamaha CD-S700
    Yamaha CD-S1000
    Rotel RCD1572
    Emotiva ERC3
    Any of those on that list I should reject straight away and why?

    I have heard a couple of complaints about motor noise regarding the ERC3, but I question the complainers, something sounds off with them.

    What did not make or dropped off my list:

    Arcam CDS27 – While I like the fact that it has balanced and unbalanced and all manner of hook-up options, I also found out that it is plagued with problems and Arcam knows about them and acknowledges them. Why would I want that and I take issue with any company that knowingly tries to pawn off inferior goods on people.

    Cambridge = Of course the Topaz players are bested by other players in the same price range. While Cambridge has now priced their Azur players out of my stretch ability, the bigger issue I have is getting information from them about the build. I don’t get into the weeds, but Cambridge was unable to tell me anything about the drive or the dac and its implementation and even why they think that their machine might be better than any of the others on my list or even the same. I have had this problem before talking to them in past, it’s like they know nothing about what they are producing? Don’t get me wrong, I like the looks of the units and all, but looks (like price), does not equate to performance in any way.

  27. #27
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions


  28. #28

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Print your list, pin it on the wall, throw a dart. Of course, that is just my opinion. In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

  29. #29
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    Here is my short list so far:
    Marantz CD5005 (clone of what I already have if I must)
    Marantz SA8005
    Marantz HD-CD1
    Marantz ND8006
    Yamaha CD-S700
    Yamaha CD-S1000
    Rotel RCD1572
    Emotiva ERC3
    Any of those on that list I should reject straight away and why?

    I have heard a couple of complaints about motor noise regarding the ERC3, but I question the complainers, something sounds off with them.

    What did not make or dropped off my list:

    Arcam CDS27 – While I like the fact that it has balanced and unbalanced and all manner of hook-up options, I also found out that it is plagued with problems and Arcam knows about them and acknowledges them. Why would I want that and I take issue with any company that knowingly tries to pawn off inferior goods on people.

    Cambridge = Of course the Topaz players are bested by other players in the same price range. While Cambridge has now priced their Azur players out of my stretch ability, the bigger issue I have is getting information from them about the build. I don’t get into the weeds, but Cambridge was unable to tell me anything about the drive or the dac and its implementation and even why they think that their machine might be better than any of the others on my list or even the same. I have had this problem before talking to them in past, it’s like they know nothing about what they are producing? Don’t get me wrong, I like the looks of the units and all, but looks (like price), does not equate to performance in any way.
    Was not trying to make this a debate on various formats. Was only suggesting that you consider having SACD capability because I feel it is worth it.

    Weather some one is a fan of vinyl or other formats has no bearing one way or the other to me .... as long as enjoying the music is primary...

    Of those on your list, I own an Oppo 105 (because it has one very special purpose that very few had)... However I previously had a Marantz SA8005 and in my honest opinion, I felt it was a more musical spinner than my Oppo.

    I also had purchased a Yamaha CD-S1000 prior to getting the Marantz. I really liked the look and feel of the machine, but unfortunately it was defective and they did not have a replacement, so I went with the Marantz.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  30. #30

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by nicoff View Post
    Print your list, pin it on the wall, throw a dart. Of course, that is just my opinion. In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions
    I know your kidding around, but actually, that is not a half-bad idea!

  31. #31

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Was not trying to make this a debate on various formats. Was only suggesting that you consider having SACD capability because I feel it is worth it.

    Weather some one is a fan of vinyl or other formats has no bearing one way or the other to me .... as long as enjoying the music is primary...

    Of those on your list, I own an Oppo 105 (because it has one very special purpose that very few had)... However I previously had a Marantz SA8005 and in my honest opinion, I felt it was a more musical spinner than my Oppo.

    I also had purchased a Yamaha CD-S1000 prior to getting the Marantz. I really liked the look and feel of the machine, but unfortunately it was defective and they did not have a replacement, so I went with the Marantz.
    Yes, the Marantz SA8005 and ND8005 are serious contenders for me, but the jury is still out of course. From what I am hearing about "service" or standing behind the product (lack thereof), concerning Yamaha, the Yamaha units are losing their footing on my list.

  32. #32
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    I have been using the HD-CD1 for over a year now as a transport into various DAC's and it does a good job. Only listened to the internal DAC for a few discs and it acceptable though not outstanding. But at the price on sale at Accessories4Less you could pair it with a DAC and be within your budget. It's half size chassis is also a plus.

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  33. #33
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    You have to listen to what you buy, so it's a terrible idea I'd recommend trying a couple of the top contenders in your system buying from a place that will allow a return, which is almost all online retail.

    Years ago I bought an ERC-1, not heavy use any more but still going. I bought it over a slightly more expensive NAD player, I Compared thw two side by side. The ERC had a larger sound stage and more neutral, however, it lacked tonal color. The ERC was more substantially built and had an aluminum remote that also helped the decision. I haven't always had that type of luck with their products though.

    I am not a fan of most anything Rotel, the sound don't appeal to me at all.

    I hate to hear Yamaha may have QC issues or customer service. I did a shootout between an entry level changer between them, Denon and Onkyo. The Yamaha was cheaper and I preferred it's more natural midrange. The other two had better bass control.

    I have yet to heard a Marantz I couldn't sit and enjoy listening to.

    The point of all that, yes they are players in the same price range, yet there are sonic differences if that's important to you.

    Schiit's return policy sucks but maybe they were having people take advantage. The Gundnir is a good sounding DAC if wanting to shed a bit of the warmth of Marantz yet retain musicality.

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    I know your kidding around, but actually, that is not a half-bad idea!
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  34. #34

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    You have to listen to what you buy, so it's a terrible idea I'd recommend trying a couple of the top contenders in your system buying from a place that will allow a return, which is almost all online retail.

    Years ago I bought an ERC-1, not heavy use any more but still going. I bought it over a slightly more expensive NAD player, I Compared thw two side by side. The ERC had a larger sound stage and more neutral, however, it lacked tonal color. The ERC was more substantially built and had an aluminum remote that also helped the decision. I haven't always had that type of luck with their products though.

    Schiit's return policy sucks but maybe they were having people take advantage. The Gundnir is a good sounding DAC if wanting to shed a bit of the warmth of Marantz yet retain musicality.
    Ha ha.....I know, I had my tongue firmly planted in cheek when I replied to the dart idea as well. Blind purchasing should always be avoided whenever it can for anything, not just audio and especially at the dollar amount we are talking.

    Glad to hear about your experience with the ERC-1, that means it stays on my list.

    Yes, I will try to listen to whatever I can on my list of course, but keeping in mind it also depends on the downstream gear all the way to the speakers. Sadly, I only have one small HiFi shop near me and I don't know what they have, but I am about to find out this weekend.
    As for purchase and return to demo gear, that is a bad and costly idea I can not afford. First, there is shipping both ways, then you have restocking fees, so buy the time I got through 4 items I would have blown around half my budget. Sure, Amazon is easiest, but they are starting to crackdown and rightfully so. I have returned all of 2 items legitimately, in all the years I have used Amazon, but still, I do not want to fall into the abuser category as there is heavy penalty for that.
    So as is the case for the 99% of us out there, home demo is pretty much not an option. That makes it a challenge when it comes to speakers moreso.

    I like your Gundnir idea, something to think about.

  35. #35

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Jack View Post
    I have been using the HD-CD1 for over a year now as a transport into various DAC's and it does a good job. Only listened to the internal DAC for a few discs and it acceptable though not outstanding. But at the price on sale at Accessories4Less you could pair it with a DAC and be within your budget. It's half size chassis is also a plus.

    https://www.accessories4less.com/mak...-player/1.html
    Good idea to consider, thanks

  36. #36

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Well, as it goes in HiFi, I just learned the last remaining HiFi shop near me is no more. Damn!
    So now I have decided to travel 35 miles to a shop that used to be near me. I hate that because I will have to make a separate trip to purchase possibly (better than having it shipped). The upside though is that they have most of the units I want to look at....I think. Still, I would rather spend the expensive gas, time and travel and make an informed purchase than a costly blind purchase. The only caveat is that should I need to bring it back in or something, it could get quite cumbersome. Of course I do not anticipate needing to do such a thing.

  37. #37
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    In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    35 miles is nothing. If you don't have the time or money to travel 35 miles one way to demo equipment intended for purchase then you really cannot complain about shipping cross country, inability to demo locally and all the inherent issues both cost and time wise to buy site unseen or heard.

    For most of us there has never been a situation when it's convenient to walk next-door (or be separated by just a couple of miles) and buy stereo gear.
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  38. #38

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by MikeCh View Post
    35 miles is nothing. If you don't have the time or money to travel 35 miles one way to demo equipment intended for purchase then you really cannot complain about shipping cross country, inability to demo locally and all the inherent issues both cost and time wise to buy site unseen or heard.

    For most of us there has never been a situation when it's convenient to walk next-door (or be separated by just a couple of miles) and buy stereo gear.
    +1

    Yes, 35 miles is nothing, there is nothing to complain about! My dealer is 29 miles away, and I always felt blessed that he was "just around the corner", as opposed to be at a great distance. I feel lucky that I have it so much easier than many other audiophiles. But it's a matter of perspective I guess. Glass half full or half empty, and all that jazz.
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  39. #39

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    My last reply. I thank everyone for their suggestions. I did not come to get jumped on. I was not really "complaining" about having to travel the miles to the shop, I included all the pros about it as well, which I can see were all conveniently ignored to meet some stupid agenda.
    I travel 27 miles each way to work everyday for the last 12 years. It is not easy getting time off to do such things, so "convenience" is only part of it.
    All I was doing was pointing out that the shop used to be much closer, now it is quite far just for audio gear, but it is important to demo when one can. My pros about it and willingness to do so are being ignored and the rest taken out of context. I don't have time for games.

    I'm gone.

  40. #40

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    My last reply. I thank everyone for their suggestions. I did not come to get jumped on. I was not really "complaining" about having to travel the miles to the shop, I included all the pros about it as well, which I can see were all conveniently ignored to meet some stupid agenda.
    Count me confused.
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  41. #41

    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    OP: “Hi...please advise me on subject X.”
    AS Community: “ABC to XYZ”
    OP: “ I didn’t come here to be told what to do. I’m outey!”In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions🧐🤯🤯

    Is it me or has there been a spate of very thin-skinned participants recently who have taken offense to reasonable comments/feedback from ASers??

    I am similarly confused and a bit bemused tbh!

    Ah well...it iz what it iiiiiizz In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions
    Cyril
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  42. #42
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Mom used to say, it's not what you say so much as how you say it.

    On the other hand, written words don't have inflexion or facial expression, it's better to give someone the benefit of doubt opposed to assuming something negative. In addition, you have to hang out a while to get a feel for folks on a forum.

    I do have to say I've been on forums since the early 2k's, if someone can't take it hear, they will eat you alive on most other forums. (I had to say most as I haven't been to every audio forum on the web, I'm sure )
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  43. #43
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    make sure you listen to the yamaha first , occassionally they have excessive drive noise . i am using a marantz sa8005 for a fair while , it replaced a cd player much more expensive and its been excellent , in fact if i see another i will buy . built well and sounds good .

    modwright can mod the 8005 too if you look on their forum

    https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=145646.0
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  44. #44
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Al M. View Post
    Count me confused.
    Agreed... I wish I could actually travel to any audio store. The closest to me is 4-5 hours.

    One other thing I feel like saying here.... when I make a post requesting others opinions I really value the responses, all of the responses. Each and every response may not be exactly what I want to hear, but there are many times that another ASer points out something that I have not even considered!

    So please, when I again post a thread asking for opinions, which I surely will, please know that I value your input!
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  45. #45
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    Mom used to say, it's not what you say so much as how you say it.

    On the other hand, written words don't have inflexion or facial expression, it's better to give someone the benefit of doubt opposed to assuming something negative. In addition, you have to hang out a while to get a feel for folks on a forum.

    I do have to say I've been on forums since the early 2k's, if someone can't take it hear, they will eat you alive on most other forums. (I had to say most as I haven't been to every audio forum on the web, I'm sure )
    Now I take that as an insult.... you certainly have been on every forum
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  46. #46
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    Mom used to say, it's not what you say so much as how you say it.

    On the other hand, written words don't have inflexion or facial expression, it's better to give someone the benefit of doubt opposed to assuming something negative. In addition, you have to hang out a while to get a feel for folks on a forum.

    I do have to say I've been on forums since the early 2k's, if someone can't take it hear, they will eat you alive on most other forums. (I had to say most as I haven't been to every audio forum on the web, I'm sure )
    And don't forget, " two Wrongs, Don't Make it Right " which means , it is not acceptable to do something bad to someone just because they did something bad to you first
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  47. #47
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Dan

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    LIVING ROOM - McIntosh C2300, MC75 (2), MR85, Magnum Dynalab 205 Signal Sleuth, Sonos Connect, Simaudio MOON Neo 260D-T, Schiit Audio Yggdrasil, Aurender N100H, Shunyata Sigma USB cable,
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  48. #48
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Quote Originally Posted by AnonHiFi View Post
    My last reply. I thank everyone for their suggestions. I did not come to get jumped on. I was not really "complaining" about having to travel the miles to the shop, I included all the pros about it as well, which I can see were all conveniently ignored to meet some stupid agenda.
    thin skin will never make on the internet, but I get your point.


    I'm gone.
    where did you go ?
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  49. #49
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    Re: In market for a new CD player or Transport and DAC - would like some opinion/suggestions

    Question about the AMR CD-777. Has anyone owned one or heard one? It has been around for 10 years or so, but I've read great things about it as both a CD player and a DAC. Thanks.

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