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Rega Saturn. Is it really a giant killer?

Everything I read on the Rega Apollo says it kills anything in the $1,000 price range and above. The few criticisms say it could be better in the bass and high end.

I also read that the Saturn is a giant killer and a considerable step above the Apollo. More delicate, refined, detailed, great spatially, with very good bass.

Same modest Sanyo transport, same chassis. Can different parts and power supply make this much difference? It still is a relatively light piece (no 40 pound heavyweight) with no special vibrational features or construction that I know of. I've seen a picture of the inside, and it is pretty simple with one decent size transformer.

Then I read someone saying it beat out their Marantz SA11, which is an incredibly built piece with a high end, metal transport, supposedly using some audiophile caps, etc.

How much of this is truth and how much is hype?
saxo

Showing 1 response by dynguy

dynguy's avatar
dynguy
65 posts
 
Hi Timoteo. Good response.

The Saturn is my first CDP and I really feel the mids and vocals are outstanding with this player.

I guess I could see where someone might consider the Saturn on the polite side.

I would love to try another player to pin it against the Saturn just to form another opinion one way or the other.

I will not go there until I add a dedicated stereo pre-amp to my combined HT/Stereo rig. This is next on the list.

Currently I am running the Saturn into a NAD Masters pre/pro and I really want to correct this.

There are times when I am blown away and there are other times I would like a little more sparkle. Guess it depends on the recording.

Playing Lyle Lovett "Road to Ensenada" as I type and that track brings me to my knees with my set-up.

I know there is the great debate but I also swapped the stock cord out and now use Synergistic Research Tesla.

I also keep the player powered up unless I am going out of town.

I seem to be pretty happy with the Saturn but now that my system is evolving and especially after I add a stereo pre I would like to borrow a Simaudio to try out and compare.

I also admit that I use a REL B1 sub with stereo and my speakers are Dynaudio Confidence C1 monitors.

Seems to be a good match but I got an itch to try another player to compare..

Thanks for your input and at times I can understand your comments and other times I am thrilled...
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