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Looking to Upgrade my CDP

Currently using a jolida 100A with 1959 Amperex tubes. The sound is warm with a huge soundstage, but I’m looking to move up to the next level. I’m not interested in computer audio, just a dedicated CD player that will get the most out of my large classical Redbook collection.

I’ve auditioned a Naim CDP and I think it might sound too detailed in my system, so I like the idea of tubes such as a Raysonic or an Ayon. Budget is around $2500 to $3000 new or used.

I’ve learned from many of you on the forum how important the master clock is in preventing jitter, thus leading to a more natural presentation.
I’d like to hear your recommendations keeping in mind I’m looking for focused, open sonics and I hate to use the word, but close to “analogue” sound.

many thanks.
128x128lowrider57
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,897 posts
 
Lowrider57, I missed that you settled on the ARC thinking you were leaning in that direction. Everything I've read about an ARC CDP has been very positive and I'm happy you've found what works.

As for the EQ matter, that is beyond my understanding having no experience in it but again, from what I've read, when properly implemented, it can do wonders since you're taking your room into consideration.

Here's to lots of happy listening,
Nonoise
rrog
1,958 posts
 
Lowrider, Have you considered an inexpensive CD player for listening to the old CDs and the ARC for the better sounding CDs? I also use the CD 3 MKII in my system, but I also own several other CD players. One in particular that rounds off the edges in the upper frequencies is the Rotel 855. I don't know if this is something you would consider, but I thought I would mention it.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,417 posts
 
Yes Rrog,
I have a Jolida 100a with some very expensive Amperex tubes, also an NAD. the Jolida handles old CDs pretty well and rolls off the highs, but I could make some good money by selling it.
I'm really thinking about an EQ for the old CDs now that I'm hooked on the ARC.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
The ARC is easy to get hooked on.
newbee
4,767 posts
 
Lowrider, FWIW I like Rrog's suggestion re having a 2d CDP that will accommodate older CD's, especially if it is a tubed unit because that allows you to tailor the sound to your system as well as the CD's themselves. Works for me.

BTW, I've found that cheapo new production JJ tubes can also help solve that highend harshness you hear in old CDs. Amperex's are a great tube, but they are not always the best regarding the delivery of the tone that you want, i.e. they are not universal (even though some folks act like they are).

Re using an EQ. That won't really help I think. You will be able to bend the frequency response BUT you will not be able to eliminate the harshness, only reduce the level of it. This has never worked for me.
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