Linn Unidisk or Musical Fidelity kW SACD or ???


OK, at the risk of starting a fire I can't control, I am looking for thoughtful advice and input before I buy my next digital source.

I am driving B&W 803Ds with McIntosh (SS) gear. I am in the market for a new CD/SACD player and have scoured the net for reviews, specs, etc. I have been focusing on the Linn Unidisk 2.1 (maybe the 1.1) and the MF kW SACD. My local dealer expects to have audition samples of each in the near future for me. Obviously, I will give both a try and see how they sound in my system. Nonetheless, at the risk of coloring my own perceptions, I am interested in hearing reactions from others to help sharpen my critical listening. For example, some have commented that Linn's Unidisks tend to be smooth, but a bit weak in the bass. This is useful for me to know because it helps to focus my attention.

I am also interested to hear if there are other players that other members think I should seriously add to my list (Accuphase? dCS? Etc.). SACD is a must; DVD-A is a plus, though I wonder whether these universal machines are trying to do too much. My budget is around $7K, but I will go up to $11K if performance justifies it.

This does not have to turn into a "my cdp crushes everyone else's cdp." What I am hoping to get here are "reasonably" objective comments -- based on first hand listening -- about the strengths and weaknesses of the Linn, Musical Fidelity and other CD/SACD players.

Thanks, in advance, to any who jump in and share their thoughts.

T
tin_ears

Showing 1 response by simon74

Hi there,
I have a Nu-Vista (for about 3 years) and it really comes close to my vinyl which is pretty much all I ask of the format given it's undoubted convenience(especially when alcohol enters the equation).
I have never heard the newer MF players but imagine they will be nice.
Very impressed by my friends Naim player (2nd from top of the line). Sounds like my Nu-vista but better bass and very detailed and supposedly taken to another level by the dedicated psu.
Gryphon players are nice and people whom I respect reckon the Linn CD12 is fabulously 'vinyl like' but it's to dear for my budget.
I have found Musical Fidelity gear to be reliable over many years of use.
Hope this helps a bit.
Si