Denon 3910 or Denon DVP 3910

My thoughts on getting a "mod" player is simply because the specialist audio manufacturers usually "upgrade" their players every so often anyhow to keep abreast of new technology.Wouldn't it be wise (my reason)not to invest in a "new" player every couple of years and buy a player that can be upgraded by a "mod house" to surpass what Denon,Sony,Marantz,Specialist audio manufacturers,etc. produce for even greater enhanced performance.I am looking for a happy medium for myself between price and sound.
Sdcampbell,thanks, for the tip on not sending it off right away.I can buy the unit for cheap and save my dollars for the upgrade.Your thoughts are well taken but I don't share the same opinion on audio being a investment.For me it's pleasure and relaxation.....a stress reliever.
I have also looked into the Cary 306SACD.This might be the ticket because I own over 2,000 discs and 99% are Redbook.So,I am considering a unit that will playback Redbook on another level and staying within my budjet.That's what I hear about the talk of "modded" players...improvements beyond some of what the specialist audio manufacturer produce! Read about a product called the NWO(modified Esoteric UX-1) or the AKM Dacs used by APL for example.I don't want to get into what mod house is better because I don't know.I respect all of them for what they are trying to accomplish for us.
Warrenh,I've given the "mod" player lots of thought.You are correct about "should your mod house develop some new upgrade you might get it at a more cost effective price" instead of purchasing a "new" player.I am still trying to get off this merry-go-round.Warrenh,let me know about your Exemplar what your impressions are. I would be mightly interested.
I appreciate your thoughts guys and Best wishes to all!

Regards
Chuckie

Chuckie, if this thread goes by the way side drop me an email in a few weeks and I'll let you know the scoop....peace, warren :)

Chuckie, Technically, the APL 3910 is not a mod of the Denon but Alex's redesign. It uses only the Denon's chassis and transport, everything else is replaced: DACs, clocks, transformers, power supplies, RCA connectors, etc. Alex uses a tube output stage and adds a hybrid attenuator that allows you to go straight into the amp for improved sonics. So, if you don't need the preamp for anything else, you can sell it to help finance the APL. The end result is one of the best CD players on the market, in a league that is way beyond the Denon 5910 or comparable units.

Chuckie, do your homework on all the mods you're thinking about, as well as talk to audiophools who own them. You can always call 711smilin. Steve has owned all of them and can give you the scooop on each. Bottom line: he'll tell you that they are all wonderful, but for his money the APL reins. I can give you the name of others who have experience with all of these and found the Exemplar reined. There go I, because of that homework. While John, obiously, loves the APL, there are ooldles who love Dan Wright's and John Tucker's mods. At this level you're talking: preference, not "better." Selecting one? A real high class problem you got there. Others should be so lucky. peace, warren :)

Warrenh, yeah, your are mostly right on, and FYI I did just buy another Exemplar 3910. I bought it for my HT, and my APL for 2 channel. If you are ever in the area, you can compare side by side, and hear the difference. It is always lots more for the final 10%.