Redbook for the long haul

After extensive auditioning I purchased the Audio Aero Capitole Mark II redbook Cd player. I had already pretty much decided on the AA and my decision was anchored by posts here on Audiogon. The latest release comes with an analog passthrough which means you don't need a pre unless you like vinyl. The AA's main circuit board is upgradable so that you are not stuck with an older chip.

Some AA owners are opting for the EMM which I have not heard and so far they are talking of promises with the EMM but I have yet to see an insightful review of this product.

If you do a search on Audiogon specific to the Audio Aero you will find many other fans of this CD player and a number of referances to it's closest competition and this will assist you in your decision.

For what it's worth, I made decisions on my personal "long haul" question a few years ago, which I feel are still valid. I felt as I grew into my equipment over time, it originally had to be better than I could appreciate then and/or it could grow along with me through upgrades as demands require. For my redbook system it is 47 Labs and for other av digital it's Muse. Good luck.

I'll keep my Electrocompaniet EMC-1 around, that's for sure....

Jdombrow,

From whatever I have assimilated on the subject of DVD players &/or Universal players being used for redbook CD, I seem to conclude that a DVD player for redbook CD is better than a CDP for redbook CDs. This has something to do w/ a more refined laser for playing DVDs that becomes beneficial when that same DVD player is used to play redbook CDs. So, don't blow off buying a Univsersal or a DVD player to play your CDs just because you don't care for the format wars!! I think that this might be a narrow view-point.

Does anyone else, who is more versed in digital gear than I am, care to comment on the better ability of a DVD player to play redbook CDs??? Thanx.

Wadia.