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Another CD Player shopping question

Appreciate advice on CD Player shopping. Movers broke my Rega and now I'm in the market for a new player. I'm pretty flexible on budget, let's say between $1,000 and $2,000. Willing to consider new or used.

I auditioned the new Rega Planet alongside the Arcam Diva 82 and preferred the Arcam. Have been very interested in the Sony XA-777ES based on the reviews, design and modding potential. That said, I'm convinced SACD is going nowhere.

Can anyone tell me if the Sony XA-777ES is worth buying vs. an Arcam for regular CD playback only?

Are there other CD players that I should be considering?

I listen to a wide range of music but example bands would include: Cat Power, Jurassic 5, Iron & Wine, DJ Krush, Low, Clem Snide, and some classic jazz.

Thanks!
charlesz1d45

Showing 1 response by reubent

reubent
6,935 posts
 
Charles,

Here are the players I've owned over the last few years:

Arcam Alpha 9
Theta Miles (balanced version)(built-in volume control)
Cary CD-308 (built-in volume control
Resolution Audio Opus 21 (built-in volume control
Granite Audio CD-650
Musical Fidelity CD/Pre-24 (pre-amp,transport,DAC and Digital swithcer in one box)

I will have a Quad 99 CD-P tomorrow too!

All of these except the RA Opus fit your price range or less. I've heard the Rega and I think I would prefer all of the above to the Rega.

That said, if you can spring for a few extra bucks, I highly recommend a used RA Opus 21 at about $2500 (new version).

For a budget player, I liked the Cary CD-308 for about $800 used or the Theta for about $900 used.

The MF CD-pre is really nice if you want to get rid of your pre-amp and save some shelf space.

I bought the Quad based on professional reviews. I'm hoping for greatness! It is $1500 msrp and they are $800-950 used.

Enjoy,

TIC
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