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Upgrading a CD/SACD player with integral DAC

I’ve described my system on site before and it was pointed out the CD/SACD player was the weak link in the system. I’m not in disagreement, and would like to start researching an upgrade that would be commensurate with the rest of the system.

Here is what I have at present:

Marantz SA 8005 CD player with integral DAC
VPI Classic 2 turntable with an Ortofon 2M Black cartridge
Luxman L507 uX Mk2 Integrated Amplifier
Magico A3 speakers
Hydra Denali 6000S Power Conditioner

I have only Redbook CD’s, no SACDs but it would be nice to retain that capability. It would also be nice to retain an integral DAC, although at a higher price point maybe you would advise on getting a separate DAC. I’d rather avoid doing that if possible, as that would mean having to add more cables that would detract from the overall budget. But let me know what you think on that score. I have no plans to add any other components, or to stream music, so that doesn’t need to enter the equation. I listen to mostly fifties jazz and Rock ’n Roll and R&B, among other things, if that is at all relevant. I want to buy new, and not Chinese manufactured products.

So what CD players would you recommend looking into that would be similar in quality to the rest of the system. And what if any sonic improvements might I look forward to with your recommended upgrade. I purposely did not mention price point as I don’t know what price point would put the CD player into the performance range of the rest of the system components. You were all were very helpful to me choosing the rest of the system components, especially the amp and speakers. So I’d appreciate, and am looking forward to your recommendations and guidance on this selection. If there’s any more information you need, please let me know. Thanks

Mike


skyscraper
skyscraper OP
824 posts
 
That's a good price you paid for your Ruby. I purchased some speaker cables the same way about a year ago, which was real risky and probably kind of foolish with the cable market being what it is.  But luckily it worked out too. I don't know if I'd have the nerve to do it again with a CD/SACD player.

Thanks for describing the difference in performance between your Rega Apollo and your Ruby KI. My Marantz SA 8005 ran about what you you paid your Rega Apollo so maybe I'd see similar improvements. 

MIke
soix
8,655 posts
 
Well, I’m in the separate DAC camp.  By requiring the DAC to be internal you’re limiting your choices significantly.  For example, as a vinyl guy you may like the sound of one of the growing number of R2R NOS DACs out there.  You won’t find those in a CD spinner, at least that I’m aware of.  I think Hifi Heaven offers a trial period where you could try something like the Metrum Onyx to see if this technology floats your boat.  People who love R2R NOS DACs LOVE them.  Add a reclocker like the Empirical Audio Syncro Mesh or Wyred4Sound Remedy and that’d still leave you with a nice chunk of change for a really nice digital cable (or two) before you reach the price of the Ruby KI.  R2R DACs don’t play SACDs, but after hearing the DAC you may not care anymore.  Just another thought.  Best of luck. 
sebrof's avatar
sebrof
834 posts
 
When I started looking for a DAC I was looking for a CDP + DAC. Soon realized they were few and far between, so I looked at separate DACs. I was all set to buy a separate DAC when I stumbled upon the Ruby (SACD Player + DAC) I mentioned. I don’t regret the Ruby, but in hindsight the CDP part isn’t as important as I thought because I got up to speed with computer source within a week or two. I don’t play CDs, I use the Ruby as a DAC almost always. But it does make it easier when people come over with CDs, I can just pop them in vs. some friends with DACs that need to rip and transfer and what not.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,251 posts
 
@soix ...................................My Esoteric UX-3 SACD Player has a BB PCM1704 R2R Ladder Dac and it also plays SACD. It is the best sounding player I have heard that I like. When I purchased it from Spearit Sound, Ralph (the owner) told me it was one of the top 3 sounding players. He was right. I much prefer the sound of my player than the others that use an ESS chip Or similar as it is more analog and fluid sounding.
skyscraper OP
824 posts
 
Thanks you for recommending the Esoteric unit stereo5. I've added it to my list and have already read one positive review of it this morning.

Soix, appreciate your thoughts on a separate DAC. I'm datng myself, but I know little about them, so will track down some reviews about the RCR NOS and start to remedy that situation. Thank you. I'd like to find a good integrated solution if possible, as I'm trying to move away from separates due to the aforementioned ludicrous cost for decent cabling, but maybe the quality DAC you're talking about isn't available otherwise. I've definitely more research to do on this score. Thanks

Sebrof, I love collecting records and discs so much I don't think i'll ever get to streaming. I haunt the Amazon CD and Vinyl site, although it's not quite the same experience going to a record store was. 

Sounds like your Ruby's DAC is much to your liking. I was reading up on the Ruby, including it's DAC component  last night, among other models, with nothing but good reports on both the player and it's DAC. If I recall correctly the Ruby avoids using the ESS chip soix mentioned too. I've really got to learn more about DAC's. 

Mike
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