2. digital
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What new CD/SACD player?

I've enjoyed my DV-50 for 8 years, but would spring for a replacement if it were a significant improvement. I'd love recommendations. Budget: I'd like to keep it under $8k (less would be nice!).
I have enough SACDs I'd like to play them in that format. Balanced outs a near necessity (my BAT 51SE has only balanced inputs). Digital inputs, esp. USB, would help justify the purchase because in the future I could use it as a DAC. [Sidebars: I've considered just going to a computer/music server, but I have a lot of discs and am not ready to face ripping them all; still I imagine that is the future. On the other hand, I wonder if it is a mistake to hold out for a USB input, because the digital inputs on a good player would be a compromise (e.g., not asynchronous USB). Thoughts?]
Candidates I've thought about. Ayre C-5xemp (but no digital in). Cary 303T (or maybe 306SACD pro, but no USB in). What else should be on the list? I've not had a chance to listen to these (in general it is difficult to get a chance to listen to possibilities, but that is a separate rant).
I listen to all types of classical and jazz. Other equipment: BAT51SE, BAT VK-600SE, Wilson WattPuppy 7.
srbr

Showing 1 response by richardfinegold

richardfinegold
196 posts
 
Nice budget. Lots of choices. My recommendation would be to get a nice player in the $1000-$2500 range and spend the remainder on a great DAC, if you don't already have one. You don't mention if you need multichannel, but judging by your equipment I suspect not.
I would consider Oppo or Denon Universal player and then perhaps an Esoteric DAC (or PSAudio Perfect Wave). For a few bucks more you might be able to get dCS debussy, which I think plays SACD.
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