Arcam CD-92 -- good value used?


Do you consider an Arcam CD-92 a reasonable value for a modest system assembled from used components? How well do you think it would stack up against the later CD-73, the Rega Planet 2000 or the Rega Jupiter? For what it's worth, I'm awaiting delivery of a refurbished Arcam CD-92T CD player I picked up via auction for $665 plus shipping. It will replace a Cambridge Audio D500 in a system with B&K Pro-10MC preamp, NAD C270 power amp, Vandersteen 1b speakers, MAS Gray IC's, Cardas Twinlink power cord for CDP, Signal Cable speaker cables. From what I understand, the CD-92 was produced about five or six years ago, part of the same product line as the less expensive CD-62 and CD-72 and the more expensive FMJ-23. Like the prior Alpha 9 and the FMJ-23, the CD-92 used Arcam's version of the dCS Ring DAC. Apparently, it also had an HDCD decoder and Sontech vibration dampening material in the chassis. It's evident that the CD-92 does not offer the latest available technology. Comments on the CD-92 on older Audiogon and AA threads varied considerably, with some describing it as clear and detailed but smooth with deep bass extension, and others describing it as forward, digital-sounding, and thin in the bass. So for those who have owned one for a while, or at least listened to one, do you think this will represent good value, and a reasonable match with the other equipment in the system?
02pete

Showing 1 response by avalon65

Pete,

I don't want to rain on your parade, but I purchased CD-92(non-T version) hoping it would replace my Cambridge D500se. Well, it didn't. I spent about the same you are for yours(great deal!). I was hoping it was going to sound much better than the Cambridge, but it didn't. I found them very similar. In fact I couldn't destinguish the difference between them and I really wanted the Arcam to sound better. For the extra $400-$500 it cost(used) I was disappointed and I turned around and sold it. However, yours it the "T" version which was/is newer than the version I had. Build quality is great though. I've had to replace the display lamps in my Cambridge already, which is something I thought I would never have to do. Your results may vary and I hope they do. Maybe it's system dependant. Best of luck.