Cd player w/ digital input + volume control $2500


Folks,

I'm looking for a CD player with digital input capability and also variable output (volume control). My goal would be to run directly into an amp as it will be the only source component in my system.

I have 1200 or so CD's so I need a player, but I also want to feed from a Sonos, hence the digital input.

I used to have a Cary 303/300 and really liked the sound from it, but it does not have the digital input unfortunately, if I recall correctly.

I figure if I can forego the preamp, I can justify going as high as $3000 for the unit. Used would be OK if it is a reliable product.

So, I'm looking for recommendations on a device in the same quality as the 303/300 or better that meets these requirements.

If there are none that will satisfy my preferences, I'll probably drop the variable output in favor of going to a preamp. The digital inputs must be available, however.

Any recommendations? It looks like none of the Current Cary products will meet these requirements. Darn, I wish the 303/300 had digital inputs.

Thanks,

---Michael
mjm6
I haven't tried all the hot DACs of the moment but I've had a few and I would not hesitate to include the MHDT Paradisea + DAC into any sstem and be confident you are getting great sound. Very very big bang for the buck is that DAC and it's a tube unit so that's good news if you are a tube lover. Im no expert on great preamps Ive only had two that were great for me but the inclusion of those in my systems was major. I had a CJ 17 tube pre and when I switched to an Ayre k1x there was no comparison. I'm sure with some research a great sounding preamp and DAC can be had in your price range. I've also had great luck with integrated amps as well so that could be another route to consider.
Good recommendations all.

I'll look into all and see what I can find.

I understand the sonos has a lot of jitter. Should I be looking for a re locking DAC? I do coincidentally have a monarchy dip 24/96 here...

---Michael
Sonos does have a lot of jitter. Nice thing about the Esoteric SA 50 is that it also reclocks, plus a lot of other nice features....and I've seen them sell here used for approx 3K. Check it out:

http://esoteric.teac.com/audio_players/sa-50/
What is the amp and speakers you are using now and what type of sound are you looking for from a cdp? You may consider a Resolution Audio Opus 21 which has direct amp capability along with a digital input. I purchased a GNSC Opus 21 several years ago and been happy ever since. It is the closest to analog sound I've heard in my system from any cdp. My previous cdp was a Cary 303/100 which crapped out on me several years ago and the sound from what I remember was nice, but a very forward sounding cdp. Keep us up to date on what you decide.
Audiolab 8200CDQ even has analog inputs and digital out. With a new generation of dithered digital volume control, which many have said surpasses it's option of analog volume control. Even balanced (XLR) output. About $1400.