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My beloved CDP finally bit the dust

Time for a  new front end.The laser and transport mechanism was designed as an entire unit,easily replaceable in my Vincent S6.Except the unit is no longer available.I've enjoyed it for the past nine years and I will miss it terribly.
I've got a Cambridge CXC along with a Parasound Zdac v2 on the way as a replacement.I don't stream,just enjoy physical media for now.Both are returnable if one or both don't work out.I didn't want to spend $$$ an end up in the same situation a few years down the road.I could up the budget but I'm not sure it's necessary.I'm hoping for a similar smooth sound with detail that's not harsh.
So what do you guys and gals think?Am I on the right track?My other components are LTA MZ2,Aric Audio Transcend Push Pull amp,Tekton Impact Monitors,four subs.Blues and rock,acoustic and electric is my preference for music.Any suggestions for 'plan B' components are welcome.
128x128jtcf
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jtcf OP
1,589 posts
 
After the 25 hour mark the Tubadour continues to change as it breaks in.So it seems 20 hours is not an accurate time frame.The treble has become a little harsh,but I'm betting that clears up over the next few days.Other than that the overall sound is open,dynamic,and organic.Today's high point was playing Chris Thomas King recorded live at the Kalamazoo Blues Festival.I was at that particular festival right up front and center.Just perfect:-)
I'll post again after 50 hours for any who are interested.
mesch
3,394 posts
 
Thanks for the continued feedback. I remain interested int the Tubadour, not sure when I will pull the trigger. 
jtcf's avatar
jtcf OP
1,589 posts
 
@mesch good to know I'm not just talking to myself,lol.I'm always bummed when someone promises an update and the thread just ends abruptly.
mahler123
3,031 posts
 
I read where Vincent has released a tubed DAK, a time least in the U.K., I don’t see it available in the States yet
jtcf's avatar
jtcf OP
1,589 posts
 
Latest update:I found the culprit that was adding that smidgen of harshness - a softly crackling tube in my amp.After replacing it all was well but....It still was a little flat sounding after 50 hours.Maybe better cabling?I bought a pair of Wire World Eclipse 8 ics and bingo!Much better.So much better I ordered another pair of ics and 4 Eclipse 7 power cords.The first cord went on the Tubadour and it was 'just what the doctor ordered'.Apparently I have some noise issues I was unaware of.The entire presentation just opened up and so much of the inner detail and harmonics that are unique to individual instruments appeared.Just so natural and organic.On my short list was Wire World,Triode Wire Labs,and Less Loss,which all have effective noise filtering.I've tried power conditioners in the past that had no effect,but these cables are very effective.I will add one at a time and see if I end up with a full loom of the same brand for the first time ever.
Anyways,back to the Tubadour.It's sounding fantastic now.It needs clean power and good shielded cables to perform it's best.It's way more sensitive to cabling then my CDP was.I'll attempt to write a review in a few weeks when I get the  wire situation finalized.
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