Looking for a CD Player w/XLR Outputs...


I'm running a McIntosh 352 and I love it, but I've run out of inputs. All I have left is my balanced XLRs. 

I'd like to buy a nice CD player w/XLR outputs. I'm okay w/used, and definitely want something nice (pro equipment is okay too), but don't want to spend too much (~$600 tops). Any suggestions?

Jon

greenwd

I am curious what is taking up your unbalanced inputs?  It seems to me that if you want a CD player with XLR out, you are accepting the internal DAC as good enough.  But you might be better off getting a good transport and using digital out to a good DAC with XLR out.  DAC quality and cost are moving quickly, and a few years from now you won't be looking for a whole new player, just a new DAC.

lots of adapters and cables with mixed ends exist

I used a set of xlr/rca adapters for a while, I did not hear any deterioration

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=rca+to+xlr+adapter

....also, if you have a CD player already, just without XLR, consider keeping that and buying a DAC with XLR out $600.  There is the Denafrips Ares II which can be had for $550 $600 on USAM or other sites today.

I would be extremely cautious with amazon adapters. Unless you don’t value your equipment