Sony XAE777 CDP or Bel Canto DAC?


I'm on the fence about adding either one of these in my system to replace my Phillips 963SA. Either one of these options should cost about $1500 when you factor in a replacement transport to pair up to a new Bel Canto 2. How does a transport/DAC stack up to the infamous Sony. I listen to rock music only & have a DNA-1, CJ PV10 (soon to be replaced?), Tyler Reference monitors with MIT & DH labs cables.
fishwater

Showing 1 response by ears

Yor best bang for the buck would be to mod your 963sa as it would more than compete with the 777.

If your not into diy, then contact Doug at www.asi-audio.com for many different levels of mods to the 963sa.

Dvd players that make great transports at there used prices are the Sony 7000es,7700es and 9000es to name a few.

Also, I would buy a Denon 5900[if you can find one] before buying the 777.
I have one I have been auditioning for the last week and can say whith around 90 hours of sacd burn in that this player offers better sacd sonics than the original 777 and Phillips sacd 1000 and is almost as good as a Modwright Signature 9000 es in sacd mode.
I would say that the signature offers slightly better inner detail, but the 5900 could improve even more whith 200 or so hours.
I have hardly any hours on the redbook or dvd-a sections but will comment on them later in the review section.
One new 5900 owner sold his Consonance cd/sacd player after hearing the 5900 and actions speak louder than words.

As for the video section, it offers as close to hi def as your likely to see on well transfered material.
Who says video can't be a part of the mix whith sacd/cd...after hearing this machine....not me.

If you use the video, It is as close to hi def as your likely to see whith well transfered material