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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
vthokie83
1,224 posts
 

emuagogo

For under $1,000 I'd highly recommend the Audiolab 6000CDT, it is the transport I've had for the last 3 years and it does nothing wrong.

Unfortunately for me, I have also had the Jay's Audio CDT2 MkIII and CDT3 MkIII in my system.....and they are all of that their reputation implies and more. The CDT3 is SLIGHTLY better than the CDT2, but not enough to justify the price difference.

If I were you, I'd look for a used Jay's Audio CDT2 MkIII to pop up. They do come up once a month or so, but they sell really quickly....you'll need to check frequently

emuagogo OP
46 posts
 

I do not like slot loading machines.  Too much wear on the CD's themselves and I have quite a collection of 3 inch mini discs.

kymanor1
126 posts
 

Look at used hi end Yamaha and Marantz.  

emuagogo OP
46 posts
 

I think I've decided to try the Audiolab 9000CDT.  Now I need to find a DAC to go with it......

sls883
1,057 posts
 

Looks like an excellent transport. 

You'll get lots of dac recommendations.  Whatever you get, don't underestimate the role of the digital cable. I tried several coaxial cables and the best in my system is the Acoustic Zen mc2 cable. 

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