Rega Planet vs Cal Audio Labs Icon MK II

I in-home tested the Rega for a week or so prior to buying a player, and to be honest, I was a little disappointed given the reviews of the Planet. I was using a Sony DVP-S7700 for CD playback at the time, and found the Sony a better choice, hence it was back to searching for me.

Naimboy, I would like to disagree with your post, however, concerning words used in describing music reproduction. While I certainly can't claim that they are all valid, I don’t know that I’ve heard them all, nor do I know if I can, but aren’t these simply people's efforts in trying to elucidate an auditory response? Not something all that easy to do, but isn't that what magazine reviews, buyer’s guides, and indeed this forum is all about? Trying to explain the fragrance of a rose certainly is a chore, but hasn't stopped so many from penning what they've enjoyed (or not). That being said, I agree, and your point hit the mark ... your ears are your ears, and everyone should listen to a piece of equipment before they leap.

My opinion, for what it's worth.

I have enjoyed my Cal Ikon II for 4 years now. Dekay is right, 750.00 is a bit much on the used market, and the player is smooth and laid back as far as digital goes. Naimboy, try having somebody hit the cymbal while you stand a good distance from it, a good cymbal should sound very smooth unless there is a big crack in it.

Gentleman, I believe this Icon MK II unit comes with the HDCD (Powerboss)upgrade. Would that upgrade justify the $750 price the seller wants. How can I tell if the unit has the Powerboss upgrade anyway?

I love my planet. I have only heard the cl-15, which is also an excellent sounding cd. The planet needs to be left on, for some reason, it sounds a little flat unless it has been on about 12 hours. THe depth increases greatly after a good month of occasional useage. I would suggest buying one from an Audiogon member with good feedback. Try it, and sell it if you dont like it. You should be able to get even money when you sell, and at the worst, lose $50. I have been using this method of auditioning, and I think it allows you to audition a product without any pressure. Afterall, you've already bought it. Resale on a planet is $450-500 according to my random observation. I bought mine new for $650 in 1999. While I can't comment on this particular CAL player, the Planet, properly set up, is most definately "laid down and died" Sorry Dekay. Ask Listener and Stereophile. Yeah yeah, I know, but when Stereophile really likes an inexpensive product, you really must take notice. I totally agree with JA's ears. TRUST YOUR OWN EARS.

SOrry, Associated equipment, which hasnt been mentioned as of yet!!! CJ PV11L preamp, MCCormack DNA.5 amp, B&W Nautilus 805 speakers, Audioquest Diamond x3 and Lapis x3 interconnects, and Audioquest SA-40 and CV-4 biwire speaker cable. THe Rega is a musical and very Undigital sounding one piece player, not the best in the world, but you cant beat it dollar for dollar.