Best one box CDP, Got it short listed to Four

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!

Right now, My Final two choice are the Wadia 861SE or the Accuphase DP-77. Can anybody describe how the two companies generally difer sonically?

Thanks
Magoo

I am familiar with the original 861. This player is about dynamics and power. It seems to at times be a little too fast sounding to me. It can produce bass down deeper than you have ever heard. The midrange is powerfully sweet and clear. This player is also incredibly quiet when run balanced.

My modded 861 is just simply the music. The Accuphase I am positive is much more refined and smooth sounding right out of the box. The Accuphase will give you a much more relaxing experience. If it plays SACD's you might want to go for that one. However, hybrid's sound great on the 861 too.

Let us know what you decide. When are you going to do a shoot out?