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Thinking about a new, lower end CD Player

My current CD player is a basic, older Sony, probably 10-12 years old. Works fine but I could use it in another location with a lower end system. It seems to sound about as good as my Arcam CD92 that lost its DAC a while back.

So now thinking about buying a new CDP and have a couple of questions.

I’d like to keep this in the $300-500 range for units with internal DAC. Not looking for SACD player. Other than a remote, not looking for special features or multi disk players.

I’m guessing that in this price range SQ is probably comparable to other units in that range.

First, is a CDP in this price range going to sound any better than the old Sony?
Second, if not, is there any reason not to just buy a comparable $200 unit?
Third, for units in this price range ($300-500) is there any reason to look for one with balanced output capability and if so, is there any way to know if it is truly balanced.

Thanks all,

George


n80
dr_wu
9 posts
 
I'm using a Sony DVP-NS425P as a CD player. Cost $99 new, several years back. Has a 24-bit, 192mHz DAC that sounds great. If a better external DAC comes along, it has coax and optical digital outs.
glupson
7,842 posts
 
"Pick up a cheap CDP if the opportunity arises."
If you are in the U.S.A., stop by Goodwill or something similar. They are $10-15 when they have them. I used to see SONY ES players for about that much but had zero use for it so I had to pass. Of course, no guarantee it will be there if you go.
jafant
18,803 posts
 
n80

which Arcam model-

Happy Listening!
n80 OP
2,100 posts
 
CD92 with the 'ring' DAC (the part which isn't working). The odd thing is that it will play through the DAC/RCA outputs for maybe a minute when you first turn it on then it gets all garbled up and quits playing altogether.

We do have some Goodwill and consignment type shops around and I will keep an eye out for something.
toddrhodes
49 posts
 
OP, if you can find a TASCAM CD-200b used for $89 or $99, get it. I'm using its bigger brother, the 500b and it sounds great. MSRP is $499 and I got it on eBay in "like new" condition, which fortunately ended up being accurate, for $189. 

I am stepping up to a very good transport since I'm feeding a nice DAC with the TASCAM, but I'm keeping the TASCAM as a backup or possibly for use upstairs down the road. TASCAM is owned by TEAC, who also owns Esoteric. Not saying they're comparable, but there's a good lineage there. The 200b is a tray load, my 500b is a slot load. It does sound better as a transport but even its internal DAC sounds fine. It decodes pre-emphasis too, if that's any concern.

And as someone who fits the stereotype of a near-millenial who should only listen through his phone, Tidal, or a streamer? Physical media all day, especially in a setting designed around listening.
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