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Confused - what to buy DAC or CD player?

Folks,

I need people's opinions in figuring out my next component - CD player or DAC. Unfortunately, I won't be able to demo the cd players and DACs at one time to do head to head comparisons - so I'm requesting your input.

My current system:

Speakers: Soliloquy 5.0s
AMP: Sim Audio i-5080
Currently using a Toshiba SD 3109 DVD player for a source (but I don't like it).

I'm willing to spend up to $700.

The options I am considering are:
1) Rega Planet 2000 - around 650 used
2) Bel Canto DAC 1.1 - around 650 used
3) Channel Island VDA DAC and VAC P.S - 500 new

The music I listen to includes rock, electronic, classical, r&b, etc.

Please let me know if there are other cd players/DACs that I should consider and/or what you think my best option is and why.

Your help is appreciated.

Thanks
jonnyk

Showing 2 responses by gunbei

gunbei
2,327 posts
 
I like Craig's advice of getting the DAC first. I once owned the Bel Canto DAC 1.1 and enjoyed. I bought the DAC to use with my Musical Fidelity CD player, then eventually changed to a Theta Pearl transport. I know Bel Canto recommends using a DVD player as a transport, but many people who've owned this DAC had great results pairing it with a CD transport as I did. There are lot's of good DACs out there that can be had at reasonable used prices. Consider also DACs from Audio Note and the discontinued EVS Millenium DACs. Good luck!
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Hi Sol. I sold the Bel Canto DAC 1.1 earlier this year in favor of the latest Kora Hermes tube DAC. The Kora has a more expansive, fuller and equally detailed sound in comparison to the Bel Canto. It's smoother and more refined and has the benefit of allowing me to tube roll which has yielded some interesting results. Basically, letting me tailor the sound to my liking. But I must say that the Bel Canto is very good, it just depends on what sonic characteristics you're looking for.
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