Best one box CDP, Got it short listed to Four

Hey guys,

thanks for all the great responses.

Rest of my system

Halo JC-1 Mono Blocks
Pass Labs X0.2 Pre-amp
JM Labs Nova Utopia BE
IC' and Speaker from Acounsic Zen
Power cords all Elrod Signature

Magoo

I have a Wadia 860 and am very pleased. One lesson that the Wadia taught me is that although there is always a new model doing the latest digital gymnastics, the transport mechanism and power supply are also critcal to the success of the player.

I have no experience with any of the models on your list; however, I would trust the Accuphase. Their amps have a reputation as "over-built" products with great power supplies. Perhaps that carries over to their players. Also, the Japanese master excellent cd's.

Wadia and Accuphase have the best transports in the business. I'm a fan of build quality and transport quality. The Opus did't seem that well built to me when I saw it at the show two weeks ago.

BTW, for rock and pop, the EMC and AA probably aren't your best bet.

The Accuphase is great, but too expensive in the US. The Wadia 861 might be a better bet.

Finally, ergonomics are a big issue for me, and may be somethign to consider. For instance, many cdps come with horrible remotes (cary for example). Also, i can't stand top loaders/clamps. They are a royal pain to use, and no one else who comes over will have a clue. You might want to hit some stores and do a little playing with actually using the machine.

Cheers,

KeithR

I wish there was something to listen to in this city, there isnt much hi end gear anywhere around here. I wish I had the time to travel, but I dont. Basically looking for the best redbook player for my system with a budget of approx $10,000.

Magoo

Magoo,
It seems that you have spent some time and plenty of good coin on your system. Also, you have a large speaker system which needs to be controlled and driven cleanly or they will not boogie with crisp and lifelike precision.

CD players sound different but also perfom differently. If you plan to really listen mostly to rock and pop, I believe you need a design that can control and properly pace the music no matter what music type you listen to.

I too have built an all purpose stereo system and listen primarily to redbooks and the redbook layer of hybrid sacd's. So far, I have been very content with my my modded Wadia 861. Good luck and have fun!