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Jolida Fusion DAC/transport: opinions or other DAC/transport alternatives?

Hi all,
I've been looking for a CD player with a little future proofing thrown in (in the way of digital inputs). I have many CDs that I'd like to keep for critical listening sessions, but would like to run a USB or toslink from my imac for access to my digital library for convenience sake.

The Jolida Fusion DAC/transport caught my interested but I can find nothing in the way of information or reviews (save for one). I like the tube idea, but it's not mandatory. I've used a couple of Shanling tubed CD players in the past with good success.

Other player/DACS I've researched but ruled out include the Cambridge Audio Azur 851C, (most seem to agree this is a very analytical sound, and not one I would enjoy), and the Rega Saturn R. The Marantz SA8005 looks good on paper, but again, I've heard it's sound can be a little analytical and sterile.

I'd welcome recommendations for other units in the $2k or less range that can handle optical or USB in.
Thanks!
yakbob
mesch
3,476 posts
 
I understand the desire to have a CD player with access to the internal DAC. Seems logical way to simplify a system and remove need for some cables. I own the Jolida Fusion preamp and enjoy it greatly however have no experience with this CD player therefore am not much help. Can you purchase with return privilege?  
yakbob OP
466 posts
 
I appreciate the input guys and realize the "right" thing to do is go with a separate outboard DAC, but have decided to take chance on the Yamaha CD-S2100 which will add SACD capability to my system. I still have a stack of SACDs around from my time with the Shanling units.

The Jolida looks like it offers nice performance for the dollar, but the Yamaha ticked a lot of boxes for my needs. I'll report back once I've had some time with it.
oem-wheels
196 posts
 
there's a PrimaLuna Prologue Premium CD player/DAC w/USB that came up for sell that I'm drooling over.. fits your description perfectly.. i can't afford it right now... maybe you ? then let me know what you think ??
yakbob OP
466 posts
 
OEM-Wheels,
Thanks for the heads up on the PrimaLuna. I would have certainly made an offer on that piece had I not already ordered the Yamaha unit. Timing is everything I suppose. Grrrr.

runner
19 posts
 
yakbob, this may be a little late, but I thought I would add my experience. I have owned the Fusion/Transport for a year and I am very pleased. I also wanted something that I could ease into computer audio. I had the opportunity to audition a $4000 Naim cd player, and in my system the Jolida was better in detail, overall resolution and dare I say less digital sounding. Jolida also offers 2 levels of upgrades if you are so inclined. System is Spectral amp/preamp, Ayre phono preamp, VPI analog and Avalon speakers.
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