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Replace CD player or add DAC?

After adding a CJ MF2250 amp to my system, I suspect the weakest link is now the front end. Currently running a Marantz CD67SE into a MF X10D, Adcom GFP750 preamp and Paradigm Studio 60 speakers. VH Audio pulsars connecting everything.

Would you add a DAC (such as Bel Canto, Benchmark or MF Trivisa) to the Marantz, or just replace the Marantz with a new CD Player, budget is $1500.

Thanks much.
richmon
tripper
223 posts
 
Keep it all, buy a pothaudio.com non-OS dac for $175. Plenty left for tweaks, cables, music and sanity. Speakers next, good luck.
richmon OP
243 posts
 
Thanks for the insightful insights.
I have all the cables and music (over 1500 cd's), so improving the enjoyment/musicality of my listening sessions is my elusive goal, you all are familar with that slippery slope eh?
I'm thinking the Cary 303/200 CD player for around $1700 - although I like the idea of tubes somewhere in the front end, I'll have to wait until I upgrade the preamp, and go with tube's in that. But before that, will prolly kick the speakers up a notch... I'm struggling to avoid this upgrade addiction, once you hear your system make magic, the devil on your shoulder says more.. MORE.. MORE!
So, it seems we're saying the Cary 303/200 would sound better than Marantz CD67SE with a Trivista dac in this humble rig.
rowe51
11 posts
 
Tubes in the front end have certainly sweetened my system. A Jolida CD player can be had for under a thousand, or more for the fancy upgrades. I have one of each and can hear some difference, though it is not too great. A Palette preamp also would clean up the sound, frequently for less than 900 on Audiogon. Lots of fun, don't break the bank.
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