Decided to buy a high-end CDP - Need help inn the last mile!


Hi,

I have now decided to finally upgrade my Oppo BDP-95 which I have used for many years as my A/V player (more CD music than Blue-Ray). I have just upgraded my 2-channel music system to McIntosh C1100 (tube pre-amp), MC1.25KW (SS monos) and B&W800D3s. Currently the digital side is all Auralic (Streamer, DAC and Master Clock). I would now like to move to upgrading my CDP and am considering the following three choices as they come well recommended and have authorised dealers in Hong Kong (where I live). However, I cannot compare them side by side as they are all from different dealerships.

Hence any help from people who have heard or owned any of the below models (preferably at least two of them) will greatly help me make my decision in the next 2-3 days.

Esoteric Grandioso K1
Luxman D-08u
McIntosh MCD600

I have heard the McIntosh and its brilliant and since I have a good relationship with the dealer and like the looks of a Mc, its on this list. Mc is the easiest to buy emotionally but lots of data on the others suggests they might edge it out.

Views please.

Many thanks in advance.

128x128sudhirgoel

Showing 1 response by murgeshj

I bought and received my new Esoteric Grandioso K1 and it is superb. The DAC (and sound) is so different from the Auralic DAC sound. Most smooth and allows long hours of listening too. I play some music from the Auralic Aries G2 (streamer) through my K1 now.
Would love to know the difference when playing CD and streaming?