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 yachadm

Arcam used pretty mediocre quality capacitors in this unit (unlike the CD73), and as a used unit a few years old, off the shelf, with definite capacitor deterioration, you are NOT going to hear the sound of which it's capable.

As a used unit, though, if the price is right, it's a good buy, provided you understand that there is absolutely no doubt whatsoever that you're going to have to invest some effort to bring it up to its true potential.

And that effort is worthwhile - after a correct restoration, it is truly spectacular.

See my Arcam CD92 restoration here