At the prices of these current players, what is keeping Oppo from re-entering the market? It would be nice to use my 205 without worrying that I’m hastening its failure (Am I a worrier or just aware that actions have consequences?). Will I be able to have it fixed? Won’t I? C’mon Oppo, can’t be that hard to do a reboot.
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.
- ...
- 85 posts total
Stay with major brands like Marantz, Rotel, or Musical Fidelity in the under $1000 price point. If you buy pre-owned, be careful. Many audiophile manufacturers are no longer supporting disc format equipment. Lasers have a usable life. So parts and support may not be available. Check with the manufacturer before buying pre-owned models. I learned by experience with a Linn Unidisc 1.1. My strong recommendation is to go with a server/streamer and either stream albums in your collection from Qobuz or Tidal, and/or burn and upload your CD collection. I believe you will get better SQ in this way. You may need to up your budget to $1500 to get a pre-owned Aurender N100H, Innuos ZENminni, or equivalent. Personally, I prefer the Aurender house sound. If you up the budget to the $3500 range(within you $3000-$5000 range), sound quality will improve proportionally if you get a pre-owned Aurender N200. At reduced SQ compared to the prior recommendations, go with a new Bluesound Vault server and/or Node streamer. Good luck. |
If you decide to go the separate cd transport and DAC route don't go the cheap transport route e.g. the Cambridge or Audiolab mentioned above , they are okay but you will be under optimizing the DAC. I had the Cambridge and moved on , it was pretty clear once I did. I haven't used a Canor or Gato CD player but Atelier 13 (I am not "affiliated" with them just a customer) has deals on each one a demo, one a stock rotation a bit over $3K each. You can find reviews online if interested. Links below, just need to scroll to see the units https://www.atelier13-usa.com/dealer-audio-component-demo-sales https://www.atelier13-usa.com/new-dealer-audio-stock-rotation-sales |
- 85 posts total