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My CD-player stopped working. Does it make sense to invest in a new CD-transport?

My older CD-player stopped working, so I am considering whether I should go now for a new CD transport. Most of the time I stream audio (Qobuz) and I have a many €€€€ streamer and DAC. So no need for a CD transport?

However, though I haven't bought a CD for at least 10 years, some people say that a CD still sounds better than streaming. And I have a huge collection (classical, jazz, blues, pop). I was looking at the front loader Teac PD 505t or the newer model PD 507t (about €1000-1300). Does that make sense? Or just forget about CDs and CD-players, keep or rip some for the good memories when buying them, and donate or sell the rest? What do you think?

stievus
robhny
11 posts
 

If you already own a lot of CDs and you like your DAC, then yes.  I bought a CDT this past summer and TBH I more often prefer to spin my old CDs rather than stream.  I collect some indie music that isn’t available on streaming services, so there’s that too.  Like someone said earlier in the chain, there are no absolutes, and it’s good to have options.  Get a good digital cable to connect your CDT to your DAC.

devinplombier
1,658 posts
 

Laser drives don’t last- most have plastic gearing that wears out and the lasers also seem to get misaligned.

Nonsense. Nylon gears will outlast you.

bigkidz
3,504 posts
 

Your CDP probably needs a new laser.  For a decent current CDP just get a Rotel.  Even the old Rotel Saturn CDP should have a digital output if you want to hook up an external DAC.

philgo01
90 posts
 

For CD Playback purposes, I would spend my $$$ on an excellent DAC and just get a relatively reasonably priced CD Player / Transport , say $500 to $1000 tops.  But that's me as I am very price sensitive !  

jnovak's avatar
jnovak
500 posts
 

Unless I missed it, you didn't say what player you have and how much it would cost to fix. If it's a good company I would fix it. 

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