C.d player with built in Pre amps i.e Wadia

Volume control is via the analog outs of the cdp, not the digital out. In any event, I have the Opus 21 and, in my system, I strongly prefer using a separate preamp. However, this is a personal preference thing and largely system dependent, I suppose. You will only know what's best in your system by trying it both ways.

I use the Resolution Audio CD55. It has a variable analog output and I am hooked. I still use a preamp but my preamp doesn't have remote volume so I use the built in volume control on the CD player. I liked it so much I bought a second unit and have one in both systems. Bought both on Audiogon. Their is a fixed output available via a DIN type connector as well. I have compared my player to two of my friends well reviewed Marantz CD players and I feel the Resolution Audio player slightly outperformed both models overall. FYI - the owner/designer of Resolution Audio is a great guy and he makes truly innovative products. I have no ties with them in any way - just saying I like their stuff.

Brad

Raysonic 168 is incredible, and affordable. See 6moons review.

I bought one, but had no intention to use the variable out. I found it so good, I sold a $3K preamp!

you will have a hard time equaling the Pass X01 preamp from just a cd player itself. It will be close and may be better in many regards, but in terms of dynamics and control the preamp cannot be matched. I have owned the Opus 21 basic and with GNSC. GNSC brings it closer, but still not 100% there. The newer wadias I have not heard, would be curious how the 581 stacks up direct?

Arbuckle, Have you had the mods done on Opus 21, you must not been happy, from what you wrote you no longer own it? Thanks Tweak 1 I will do a google, there must be other brands that do this? where does the Opus sit in terms of quality of over all preformance in a scale of 1 - 10 compared to payler up to 10,000 range?