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buy upsample processor or new CD player? Or ... ?

I guess I'm working on an entry-level system, and am looking for bang-for-the-buck options to compliment my cd sound. What I'm working with: Vandersteen 2ce signatures, Sony 79es 5-disc changer, Denon 3802 reciever. I'll be able to shop for cable this summer, but right now I have MIT T-2 speaker cables and Coincident ICs. I just read about the GW Labs DSP upsampler in Bound for Sound, and for $399 it sounds like an interesting way to get more out of my non-SACD/non-DVDa CD collection. I think my CD player needs to be upgraded as well, but I can only afford to do one or the other. I am considering either a used Rega Planet or a used AH! Njoe Tjoeb 4000 if I can find a good price. I'm especially interested in feedback from anyone with the GW DSP or something comparable. I just wanted to hear what the better options would be. As I see it, the GW is an intriguing but unconfirmed step up that my current CD player might not do justice. Thanks in advance for your advice; I'm just starting out and have had really kind input here on Audiogon so far.
sfd101

Showing 1 response by sfd101

sfd101 OP
4 posts
 
Thanks for responding. I'm still learning about DACs, and have never used one. I'm pretty sure that the Denon 3802 has built-in DACs for some (if not all) connections. Why couldn't I just connect the GW Labs upsampler to one of these connections via coaxial? The denon website for the 3802 says: "Analog Devices 24 bit, 96 kHz high resolution DACs on all eight channels • Real 24 bit, 96 kHz Digital Interface Receiver." Please someone help clarify, if you don't mind.

Again, would the difference in using an Upsampler and/or DAC be more significant sonically than what I would recieve if I upgraded my CD player? Or about the same? Or is this answer too system-dependent to tell? I also hear that the Ah! Njoe Tjoeb will be soon offered with an upsampler upgrade, so that might be an option.

Thanks again for your input.
--Steve
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