TRL Marantz Sa-14

I am wondering about the performance similarities or differences between the SA-14 v1, v2, and 8260 players once they have been TRL modified. I am particularly interested in SACD performance. Thanks,

Thanks, Oldpet, that is very helpful. Lkdog, we look forward to hearing from you.

How is the redbook performance on the TRL modded SA-14's? Is there a significant difference between redbook and SACD performance on these players? Thanks,

Hchi: definitely let us know how the 9500 sounds on all formats once you have it broken in a bit.

Does TRL mod any current Sony or Denon units?

Another way to look at it is, and all this is, is, another way to look at it: how many modified TRL CD players have you seen for sale on this site? I'm a pretty regular Audiogoner and I have only seen one.

After following this post for several months I finally found the unit I wanted (SA-14 v2) and am having it shipped to TRL. I look forward to reporting my findings.

My understanding was that all the version 2's were in the champagne color. I waited to find one because I wanted one that color.

Once I get my TRL SA-14 I will be able to tell you as I owned the XA777 for some time. It will probably be a few weeks though as TRL just got my unit on Friday.

DO IT! Also know that TRL offers your money back on the mod if you are not satisfied with the player. From what I have read, no one has asked for it.

Received my TRl SA-14 v2 yesterday. Let the break-in begin. I bought the unit used before I had it sent to TRL, so the unit as a whole is broken in. Do I still need to break in CD and SACD seperately post mod? Thanks,

Vertigo: Without a doubt the TRL SA-14 sounds better than the XA777 on redbook CD. The way you described the XA777 is exactly the way I would put it: SACD was wonderful and redbook was a bit dry and could be a little uninvolving (but very accurate and true to the recording). SACD on the TRL is at least as good and probably better than the Sony. Keep in mind that I only have 50 hours on my machine.

Okay, here is my truth. I received my TRL Marantz SA-14 v.2 and, after 50 hours of break in, just was not comfortable with (i.e., did not enjoy) the sound.

Please, I am not going to go into the ill-defined audiophile vocabulary of extended highs and full mid-bass, etc., etc., et al. I listen wholistically, meaning, the sound moves me within a few days of listening or it does not.

Here's the thing though, I do not think it had anything to do with TRL, I think my disatisfaction has more to do with Marantz. Several months ago I was listening to a friends DV-9500, and, while I thought it sounded quite good, I knew it was not for me. Again, I am not going to go into details, I just did not prefer that sound. To me, the TRL SA-14 v2 had a very similar sound to the DV-9500 (general characteristiscs). The TRL was a considerably more refined of course, but there were distinct similarities between the units That sound (as I interpret it) is just not for me.

I AM NOT SAYING IT IS BAD! I am just saying it is not for me.

I know I did not give it the full break-in. I'm sure the sound does improve. I thought the unit sounded quite nice. I guess I made the judgment that, since I heard strong similarities to the 9500, while it would improve, the fundamental characteristics would not. I guess I am referring to a Marantz house sound that is just not my cup of tea. I may have erred in my judgment though.

I already sold the unit. The last point I listened to it was at the 100 hour mark. Just to reiterate, it is not at all hard for me to see what people like about this player....TRL is doing great work and Paul and Co. are fine people to deal with, it was just not for me.