Thanks for the response guys. I think I will keep the changer "as is" and look into a transport/DAC combo for more critical listening. If you have any ideas fire away
Bob.
Bob.
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The Sony 999 dvd/sacdp is a HORRID transport, lots of garbage comes out of the digital output, that's why you hear little difference with the MF dac, which sounds stunning in the proper system. Get a proper transport, even a cheap Theta Basic or PS Audio Lambda connected to the MF dac and it will eat the Sony alive on redbook. The Sony 9000ES is a much better transport then the 999, if you must use a dvdp as a transport. |
Socrates! I'm glad (and sad at the same time) that you confirmed my impression of Sony 999 vs. MF3 24 DAC. What would you suggest instead for Redbook and Multi- channel SACD playback. I could actually do without the DVD at this time, will add separate dedicated DVD later on, as needed. Actually, I ended-up buying the MF3 24 DAC. Appreciate you response in advance. P.S. Read your review on Marantz SA- 14, great read. Our music tastes are pretty similar btw. ( Ian Anderson, Jethro Tull, Orff, Beck, DSOTM, etc.) Regards. |
Thanks for the kind words, Maril555. Sorry to say that I've not used a MCH SACD player much as a transport enough to give any suggestions, but maybe if you started a new thread on the subject you'll find someone who can suggest something in your price range. I've read of many folks not too happy with most DVD based SACD and Universal machines as a transport when compared to dedicated CD transports, so there may not be much hope short of going with Esoteric or Krell. From a recent audition I would add that the MF dac and even the MF CDpre24 is shockingly close to the Krell SACD Standards' sound on redbook, a really close battle overall, if that tells you anything. If you can tolerate another box in the rack, a Theta Jade or Peal comes highly reccomended with this dac, or even the cheap Basic mates up very nicely. I'm strongly of the mind that the transport should be of the same quality (and usually near the same cost) as the dac attached to it; that both pieces are equally important for good sound. Good luck! |
Since the Sony SACD units are widely modded at reasonable cost this may yeild better value sonic upgrade for less money. SACD Mods has nice upgrade package for $328: http://www.sacdmods.com/ External Dac would also help but I think you get more bang for the buck doing mod. |
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