New CDP or standalone DAC...?


Current source is the Oppo 103, bought three years ago. Would greatly appreciate any and all comments on buying a better-sounding CDP, or buying a better-sounding DAC and using the 103 as a transport.
Thanks in advance!

Tom
tomcarr

Showing 3 responses by 2psyop

If you have a HDD and a computer with a disc drive you could rip your CDs to a lossless format file. Get a Bluesound Node 2 and with that device you can access all your ripped files and stream hi-rez files like a MQA. You would have a very large library of music to pick from. Another option is to buy a Bluesound Vault and rip your CDs to that internal HDD and still enjoy all the streaming. Each of these options can be done for less than $1000. The DACs in both units are very good and can be upgraded later by buying a better DAC in the future. That being said, I was very impressed by the Bluesound DAC, since I think it is trickled down technology from NAD.
Also all your music could be controlled by your smartphone or tablet.
Somebody mentioned TAS. Actually, that is the last place I would look for unbiased objective info about any audio brand. You get better info here or even other audio websites that are not heavy with manufacturer specific forums. With some research one can find it’s mainly about advertising and pushing the brand you make, carry or have ties with. The never ending glowing reports of brand XYZ in TAS or Stereophile is just hilarious. It becomes nearly impossible to read any criticism from these guys. 
Tom, not knocking the 205 and try it if you like, but I would look for a dedicated and specifically designed CD player or transport and/or a much improved DAC.

Just to add a tidbit...I have two CD players in two audio systems. Both have an external DAC connected. One is a Rega Apollo with a Schiit Bifrost Uber and the other is an older Sony ES player with a Benchmark DAC1. Neither of these sound better than my Bluesound Node 2 playing MQA. MQA streamed albums sound better. The Node 2 can access all my ripped CDs and play them as good or better in many instances than my CD setup. The kicker is that the Node 2 costs $500. Just some 2 cents info before you make your final decision.