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HDCD 'best one box player' recommendations?

Seeking your recommendations for a high quality one-box CD player with HDCD decoding. Currently I have the EAD Ultradisk 2000 MKII which sounds great, albeit an older technology. I am considering upgrading to a player with newer DAC's & possibly upsampling; such as a Cary 303/300. Please suggest any other machines that I should audition? This is for an Accuphase separates rig, so high quality is definitely a priority. thanks for your input!
bob_bundus
bigtee
803 posts
 
There are older players that meet the HDCD requirements. Most newer ones don't. Several very good ones come to mind: Arcam FMJ23 or 23T and the CAL labs player of about 6 years ago with the power boss (Mk.II version)both used the PM100 chip which was very good.
Don't dismiss older technology too fast. Some of the older players are less hyped sounding and smoother with better transports. New technology may be TOO good for a flawed format.
tbg
5,263 posts
 
Bigtee, from what I hear of HDCDs on an Exemplar 5910, I hardly believe it is a "flawed format." Since my first experience with the Lindemann 680D, I have been amazed at the benefits of HDCD.

It is too bad that MicroSoft bought this technology and has decided to abandon it in their quest to keep up with Apple.
nsgarch's avatar
nsgarch
2,524 posts
 
Tbg, could you explain this a little more?

"It is too bad that MicroSoft bought this technology and has decided to abandon it in their quest to keep up with Apple."

Did MS buy it just to kill it? (I thought they were going to incorporate it into Media Player or something.)
I'm not into SACD, but I really like XRCD, and find HDCD as good in most cases (for a lot less money.)
mlauner
250 posts
 
naim cdx2 very musical.
dlstephenson
121 posts
 
denon 3910 upgraded by parts connexion. easy buy and unbelieveable sound
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