Arcam CD-92 -- good value used?


Do you consider an Arcam CD-92 a reasonable value for a modest system assembled from used components? How well do you think it would stack up against the later CD-73, the Rega Planet 2000 or the Rega Jupiter? For what it's worth, I'm awaiting delivery of a refurbished Arcam CD-92T CD player I picked up via auction for $665 plus shipping. It will replace a Cambridge Audio D500 in a system with B&K Pro-10MC preamp, NAD C270 power amp, Vandersteen 1b speakers, MAS Gray IC's, Cardas Twinlink power cord for CDP, Signal Cable speaker cables. From what I understand, the CD-92 was produced about five or six years ago, part of the same product line as the less expensive CD-62 and CD-72 and the more expensive FMJ-23. Like the prior Alpha 9 and the FMJ-23, the CD-92 used Arcam's version of the dCS Ring DAC. Apparently, it also had an HDCD decoder and Sontech vibration dampening material in the chassis. It's evident that the CD-92 does not offer the latest available technology. Comments on the CD-92 on older Audiogon and AA threads varied considerably, with some describing it as clear and detailed but smooth with deep bass extension, and others describing it as forward, digital-sounding, and thin in the bass. So for those who have owned one for a while, or at least listened to one, do you think this will represent good value, and a reasonable match with the other equipment in the system?
02pete

Showing 1 response by bluecirclehead

I have a cd92. It replaced a Roksan Kandy and it was an excellent step up. When I compared it to a cd23 a couldn't hear any difference.

One thing that really improved the cd player was a good power cord. FWIW, this is what I have in my setup:

Von Schweikert VR-2
Blue Circle CS Integrated
Arcam CD92
Signal Cable Silver Resolution Speaker cables and IC.
PCs: Nucleus Polestar with Oyaide 046 ends (CD), and VH Audio Flavor 2 for the integrated.
Bright Star Audio IsoRock 4 under the arcam

I used to have the Mas Grey ICs and changed them for SC Silver Resolution. I preferred the SC in my system.

As far as I know, the rega planet 2000 is as good if not better than the arcam cd92, but one would be splitting hairs here. I doubt there is a substantial difference.