BEST CD TRANSPORT

@cdc 

I believe that the main distinguishing attribute contributing to the high level of sound quality by the RS2T is the utilization of the Stream Unlimited CD PRO-8 top loading drive unit with its integrated Blue Tiger servo. I strongly suspect this is the major factor.

Charles 

Charles; you hit it on the head.  The Stream unlimited drives and servo boards are about the best that can be had (except in the case of very expensive transports), and if the output electronics are well done, the sound is quite good.  This is why Schiit uses them in the URD transport.

@fastcat95

Wise choice for Schitt.

Gryphon, Audionet, Aqua HiFii (La Diva MK II) and Acustic Arts Audio have all chosen the latest Stream Unlimited CD PRO CD-8 top loading drive mechanism/assembly unit.

Charles

For the people who recommended the PS Audio SACD Transport - any concerns about the reliability of the transport mechanism? I read in another thread that it uses a Denon & Marantz drive which is supposed to be more reliable than the cheap drive used in the older PS Audio transport.

I’m looking to replace my 20 year old Accustic Arts CDP which does have a top loading drive. I’m considering the PS Audio transport and their new DirectStream MKII. It would be an easier choice if PS Audio used a top loading drive.

I came across this new CDT that uses the CD-PRO-8 transport from Audio Phonique, from Poland. pg

The sad thing is I don't think most here can afford it but it's nice to see what can be obtained. It's not on their website yet.

All the best,
Nonoise

Thanks @nonoise 

That is an impressive looking transport. Another High End European CD transport utilizing the Stream Unlimited CD Pro-8 drive . This is why I've viewed the RS2T as a "" relative " bargain. The other European brands with this drive unit are 10K USD and higher. I am not suggesting that just this top load Stream Unlimited drive  unit is all that matters, But it is a fundamentally important aspect contributing to a high quality CD transport. It is well thought out in addressing vibration and resonance issues.

Charles

Bought a Teac VRDS-701T CD transport on a whim to get back into my CD collection in storage; it has a version of Teac's VRDS mechanism - for what that's worth, I don’t know really. 

What I DO know is that its sound is better than what I get streaming from a Lumin P1, and on par mostly with what I get from my Linn LP12 Selekt TT with a $2K Grado cart.

Who knew? Lol not me that's for sure!

Preowned Meridian 500 CD transport. 

I recently bought the Teac 701t and it's a great machine  ,  love it.