Please don't slam me for low-balling, here, but Rotel insides all seem to agree that first generation RCD855s had outstanding, heavy, low-jitter transport sections; clearly superior to later generations. I continue to use mine, but of course need to upgrade the DAC, amp/filter, etc. Used ones have popped up on here and eBay under $200. Very clearly a more dynamic and PRaT-ful presentation than a ARCAM 9, Audio Refinement Complete, or Pioneer DVD w/ BelCanto DAC, for example. I remember about 8 years the Boston Audio Society ran a CD clinic where a bunch of jitter measurements were made. The Rotel 855 was the only low-to-moderate priced player with exceptionally low jitter.
Go figure!
(That being said, local dealers nevertheless suggest I replace the 855 with a Naim CD5 or Linn Genki, or FMJ, rather than tacking a DAC onto it. Comments?)
Go figure!
(That being said, local dealers nevertheless suggest I replace the 855 with a Naim CD5 or Linn Genki, or FMJ, rather than tacking a DAC onto it. Comments?)