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Need a new CD player. Suggestions please.

The past 3 years I've put together a modest new system including a NAD C538 that is failing.  It doesn't sound as good as it used to even with an external DAC and if you skip a track it doesn't play the first few seconds of the next track.

Looking for a replacement has been frustrating.  My  last CD player was a Sony ES 400 disc changer that played everything including SACD.  I almost wish I hadn't let it go when I moved.

The CD players that appeal to me are in the $3k to $5k range.  I'm not sure I want to spend that much.  Can somebody recommend a new CD player for $1k or less?  I'm fine with a transport and don't mind using an external DAC.  I have a smattering of SACD's but a non SACD player wouldn't be the end of the world.

Thanks in  advance for any suggestions.

emuagogo
charliecheese
41 posts
 

If you're willing to spend a little more and use a CD transport, I'd recommend this. Got one earlier this year. I use it in combination with a Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M and a Wyred4Sound Remedy Reclocker. Every time I listen to a CD it feels like I'm hearing the music for the first time. More definition, deeper soundstage - everything that I listen for was vastly improved. One of the best purchases I've ever made.

https://www.amazon.com/Audiolab-9000CDT-Flagship-Transport-Player/dp/B0FDM4N997/ref=sr_1_11?crid=1L8M207MQ02VH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TUN3vvlxycA26oy3TZSPSdbkBF1NC0Pp4jiq9rCaaqXuQacWwP6859ZCSiQ4byjpuyRqyI0IKtwGZRFSNaQjuiQSjsaikQU7bphf5HAATiVHSYhZgK-LyPNzrtoerp9g07XFhzWs84h8_2uZ3K4d03zTSceUKz52eCSY2jeIDTbnFe-7hdev_LHxu0tjP5LJw_VeOGNTYx7KFK_uoKqmErpR4mTPlHur_hL_UdXXNUw.Wn2oZhxLi8h9rsfd5Bf1lrBvS18_ttHyc24w4fQ1SU4&dib_tag=se&keywords=audiolab+cd+transport&qid=1758537263&sprefix=audiolab+cd%2Caps%2C199&sr=8-11

dynacohum
842 posts
 

The Ayre CX8 is the best I’ve heard.  There’s one on USAM right now for $2599.00.

 

infection's avatar
infection
811 posts
 

From the players & transports I’ve owned the Cambridge CXC transport is excellent & great value. 

vuch's avatar
vuch
209 posts
 

I had my Sony 302ES CD player restored last year. I don't use it much these days because my preferred source is vinyl and then streaming. However, I bought a couple of CDs in the last month and it has been a treat using the player again.

I got a promo copy of Mazzy Star - Among My Swan. The CD blows away streaming from Qobuz! I use an Audioquest Cobalt Dragonfly DAC running through my laptop. Qobuz always seemed to beat the CD player and vinyl set up before I upgraded the TT and cartridge. The other CD I bought also sounds better than streaming. It's also a promo copy. I wouldn't think that would matter as much as it does with vinyl but hearing is believing. 

I really like the Sony 302ES, I think it's a second generation CD player. It has a metal case and robust build. The tray is sleek, fast with a satisfying movement and sound. It's circa 1985. I'm not sure how much they go for now but it might be worth tracking one down.

lordmelton's avatar
lordmelton
1,181 posts
 

If you want SACD take a look at the Shanling Onix Zenith XST20.

Also plays Mqa cds, outputs to I2s but hirez PCM over USB, $2k.

Non SACD SMSL VMV T2 outputs over I2s too and can be a digital hub, $1k.

SMSL P200T great unit does much of what the T2 can, $500 or less.

Both SMSL units have clock inputs.

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