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Suggestions for adjustable gain CD player

I am looking for a relatively high quality CD player with adjustable gain, and I have been looking at the Wadia 302 player for one example. I do not need a unit with a volume control since I will be using it with a preamp. I currently have an Ayre CX7e player, which has an output level that is too hot for my system, otherwise I would keep it. I have tried Rothwell attenuators and did not like what they did for the sound quality. I am interested in players in the $2,000 to $3,000 price range, and do not need multi-format or DVD. Any further suggestions would be appreciated.
mitch2
peterb
108 posts
 
The APL NWO-2.5 has this feature.
gregm
3,395 posts
 
Your Ayre is a good product, as many have noted. Its preamp stage is good ASAI can tell.
So, my suggestion is, keep the Ayre for now and consider a ladder volume control (like a placette, above) or a transformer volume control (like Bent? I think).
Later you can bypass the Ayre's attenuation altogether. These "passive" control units also offer switching capability so you can accommodate other sources (phono, etc).
jppenn
130 posts
 
I have used the Wadia 302's back panel gain control to better align its output between my player and my preamp. In my case, I actually bumped the gain up to its max (the opposite of your situation). The Wadia 302 affords you three levels of gain adjustment. BTW, the Wadia 302 produces an excellent sound...although I know that the Ayre is good too. Good luck, Jim
mitch2 OP
3,684 posts
 
Thanks Jppenn, I was hoping to hear from some 302 owners. I do not mind a lateral move, but do not want to take a step down from the Ayre. Gregm, you must be mistaking the model Ayre I own, the CX-7e does not have any form of preamp or attenuation, although it is a good unit. I am not looking for any form of a volume control, but simply a unit where I can adjust (reduce) gain for system matching (e.g., set it an forget it). I contacted Ayre, but they said even if I send it in to them, they cannot modify the CX-7e to reduce gain.
jdombrow
371 posts
 
Why not see if someone can mod your current player to meet your needs?
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