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CD transports; do they really matter

In my pursuit of total sonic harmony, I have been investigating whether a CD transport ( to replace my bulky and aged Luxman CD player ) would be a good option.  I had an interesting conversation with the manufacturers rep of a respected brand regarding his companies CD transport.  He basically said its all in the DAC, the transport, as long as its not a cheap component, does not make much or any difference. So, I ask does it really matter?

mdrone
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@stuartk 

The CDT3 was their flagship but I think it is no longer produced likely due to lack of Phillips CD Pro-2 units available as spares. They don’t have this problem with the CDM4 units for their CDT2 transport.

Charles

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@stuartk 

When Teajay (Terry London) reviewed the Pro-Ject RS2T  he mentioned that the Jay’s Audio CDT2 MK II was better sounding than his CEC, MBL, P.S.Audio PWT and his Accustic  Arts transports. Quite the very high praise. I believe that you would be ecstatic with the CDT2 current version MK III. If the RS2T weren’t around that would definitely have been my choice.

Charles

stuartk
4,013 posts
 

@charles1dad: 

Thanks, Charles; that's very encouraging!

I've e mailed Jay's re: availability of spare drives. 

I'd still like to move to a top-loader but naturally am wary of the infamous "boat anchor syndrome". 

If I had the $, I'd just buy the Aqua Diva and be done with it. . . and a matching Formula DAC (why not?).but that's not likely. 

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@stuartk

Well the Aqua Hifi Diva II would get you the coveted CD Pro-8 drive/Blue Tiger -84 servo integrated drive unit re RS2T. However for the cost I don’t believe that you will beat the Jay’s CDT2 transport. Just my 2 cents.

Charles

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@stuartk

I really wish the RS2T ergonomics and smaller size had worked out for you. You already know how good it sounds with the supplied SMPS wall wart. I got a LPS about 5 or 6 weeks ago and its just improved to silly good level. This small footprint transport just fills my listening space with a beautiful organic presentation. 

Charles

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