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Upgrading Rotel RCD-1072

I'm looking into upgrading my CDP in the near future and am looking for some opinions/advice. I'm looking in the 1 - 1.5K range, used. My speaker/amp combo is Merlin TSM-MMe and Cary SLI-80 F1 all triode.

I listen to basically everything under the sun with the exception of Country music. Mostly acoustic jazz, singer/songwriter, and prog rock. I'm mainly looking for musicality so no need for dry, over analytical players.

I am looking at a Rega or a Cary CDP but am open to more suggestions. Also, would the difference in sound be substantial or more subtle? Thanks in advance!
nicodemix
foster_9
1,638 posts
 
Better chances of synergy with Cary imo.
doon
15 posts
 
I upgraded from a Rotel 1072 to a Musical Fidelity A5. There was a small improvement in the soundstage.
jimyork
49 posts
 
Have you considered buying a dac for the Rotel? Might be a better bang for the buck...
nicodemix OP
90 posts
 
I have definitely considered purchasing a DAC and using the Rotel as a transport. I am just not sure if that is the best idea.

I am all ears. I just do not want to spend a lot of money on something that will only have a very subtle difference in sound. I can stretch my budget to 2K but need to have the sonic difference worth the money spent.
miner42
709 posts
 
I am in the same boat as you - upgrading a RCD-1072. I have auditioned the Rega Saturn (because of rebate/trade-in - dealer will sell for $1550 with trade in) and a Bryston BCD-1 (very nice, dealer will sell for $2100 w/trade-in). The Rotel is a tough cookie to beat w/o dropping some dinero. I have also contmeplated a DAC but I am a one-box kind of phile when it comes to digital.
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