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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
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.
nicodemix OP
90 posts
 
So I guess the answer is that, within my budget, there really won't be any substantial improvement? Thanks for saving me money, LOL. ;)
nicodemix OP
90 posts
 
Miner, how did you like the Rega compared to the RCD-1072? Also, have you auditioned the Cambridge Audio 840C?
nyctc7
91 posts
 
I went from a 1072 to a Linn Majik. I agree that "The Rotel is a tough cookie to beat w/o dropping some dinero". There is one on Audiogon ("never used") for 1.8k from an authorized dealer.

I'm happy with the change, but no doubt the 1072 is a great player.
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