I've had the latest McIntosh MCD85 for a little over a month now. It just gets better and better with hours played. I can't believe how good SACDs and regular CDs are sounding. It also, has the ability to (firewire/usb or optical) a connection from a laptop or network device and leverage the MCD85 32 bit DAC.
I have it connected to the amp using the balanced (xlr) outputs; which also helps. However, I think at the price point there will be some less expensive competitive alternatives like the Bryston or top-line Marantz; I'm sure there's many others.
I still prefer vinyl, but like @chilli42 I have a CD collection that I want to leverage and also want to use streaming input from time to time. The MCD85 seems to be making this plan a reality without compromise.
One thing to note; like vinyl (betterecords.com discussion) some CDs just sound more engaging than others. Some CDs rival the depth of vinyl, while others are a notch below similar vinyl content. Must be the sound engineer?
I have it connected to the amp using the balanced (xlr) outputs; which also helps. However, I think at the price point there will be some less expensive competitive alternatives like the Bryston or top-line Marantz; I'm sure there's many others.
I still prefer vinyl, but like @chilli42 I have a CD collection that I want to leverage and also want to use streaming input from time to time. The MCD85 seems to be making this plan a reality without compromise.
One thing to note; like vinyl (betterecords.com discussion) some CDs just sound more engaging than others. Some CDs rival the depth of vinyl, while others are a notch below similar vinyl content. Must be the sound engineer?