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Upgrading the Cary 308T CD player

I decided to audition a CD player within $5000 which is clearly superior than my Cary 308T CD player, and borrowed a new Blue Note (named Blacknote CDP-300) player. The initial impression was very good - a very clear midrange, good dynamics, etc. I even tried to open the lid in order to replace the stock 6922 tubes with vintage tubes, but could not find proper tools for removing the lid.
Yesterday I noticed that the Blacknote player has a strange way of representing baroque and jazz music - the highs are muffled and it lacks articulation and consistency, as if the music is covered with a veil. Back to the Cary - the sound became rounder with crisper highs and firmer bass, though the midrange was muddier (the powercord was VH Audio AirSine). It is very strange, and I am going to investinate it futher.

What player within the $5000 range could you suggest as an upgrade for Cary 308T?

I will appreciate all opinions and comments.
transl

Showing 1 response by jb8312

jb8312
247 posts
 
Indirectly, I went from the 308T to the Naim CDX2, which then lead to the addition of the Naim XPSII power supply to the CDX2. Which is where I reside in contentment now.

The Naim is almost the most contrary CDP to the 308T. I liked the 308T but found the Naim to have so much more LIFE to it and within it...

So, if you are really looking for a change, check out Naim. If you are looking to refine and "upgrade" the 308T sound, I don't think I can offer much help....

Have fun with the search!

Thanks, John
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