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Unidisk SC vs. VSEI modded Sony for SACD?

Has anyone compared these players? I was considering modding my 9000es (vsei level 5) and keeping the Ikemi for redbook, but now I'm wondering what other options are there that would include selling the Ikemi and 9000es and allocating a $3000-3600 budget for a used SACD/redbook player that does each outstandingly well (IMO would have to be outstanding to better the Ikemi in redbook). Some options I'm looking at, aside from vsei modding the 9000es as described above, are getting a Linn Unidisk SC which I know would beat the stock 9000es in SACD and redbook, but I'm concerned that I would be spending so much for a Linn player whose redbook is just on par with the Ikemi. In that case there would be no point in selling the latter, and simply mod the 9000es. Other options I'm considering are pickin up a used SCD-777es and have that vsei modded (for a total of around $2500-3000 for the level 5 vsei and stock scd-777es). I'm considering the latter option because the SCD-777es transport seems to be (from what I;ve read) a better foundation upon which to build than the 9000es, whose transport is not as solid as that of the Ikemi's.

So there's the modding of a Sony 9000es or 777es, or possibly a one box stock solution such as the Unidisk SC, which brings up the usual questions regarding its SACD and redbook.

I'm mainly interested in the most outstanding SACD, but not unless the redbook is also in the ballpark of the Ikemi. I listen mainly (~75%) to classical and about 25% classic jazz and rock combined.

Any help greatly appreciated.
tedd1

Showing 4 responses by dizzyizzid

dizzyizzid
23 posts
 
Tedd:

I have the same dilemma as you have. I currently have the ikemi and am thinking of either buying the 9000es and having it mod or selling the ikemi and buy the an universal player. From my research, I found out that Unidisk SC does not play CD as well as ikemi.

Didn't know that you can transfer VSEI mods to another player. Who did you talk to? Also, what happens to the old mod unit, will it still work or it becomes junk?

thanks,
dizzyizzid
23 posts
 
I didn't know that you replaced your ikemi. Anyway, I agree with you that the ikemi is really good with redbook. What do you think the comparison between an ikemi with redbook and a 9000ES unmodded with SACD - any difference? I have not heard an SACD with a proper system before so would like to hear your experience.

I am currently on a lookout for a used 9000ES, and would probably do the mod soon. lets keep in touch when one of us do the mod. I too am skeptical how much better a VSEI will sound over the ikemi.
dizzyizzid
23 posts
 
Thanks for the detailed explanation!
dizzyizzid
23 posts
 
Thanks again for the explanation. When I auditioned the ikemi and Meridian 588, didn't like the linn right away. But after two days of listening I ended up returning the meridian to my dealer. After the linn purchase, I listened to ayre cx7 and wondered if I made the right choice. However, The more I played the linn the more I start to appreciate the ikemi sound. Piano and female voice are articulated very accuratly, and to be honest the bass didnt bother at me at all (I would say it has tight bass as oppose to lean). but, the lower midrange is slightly analytical. I wish it has more brass on some saxophone recordings. and since I also listen to some acid jazz that aren't recorded properly, the lean midrange is somewhat accentuated. These are minor cons, and have no plans to change my ikemi.

Anyway, I have very few classical recordings, but since my gf listens to them alot, I'm starting to appreciate it more. Your positive review of both 9000ES and classical SACDs made me take the plunge. Once I bought a used ES, I'll start building my classical recordings. Maybe you can give me a short recommendation list of which recordings to buy. BTW, I bought a Sarah Chang CD (my first classical purchase in 2 years), and was really amazed at her skill. The music was a bit too hardcore for me though ... (Shostakovich/Prokofiev).
Thanks again...
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