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Need Advice on a Low End CD Player Giant Killer

I'm on the lower end of audiophiledom - I have Paradigm speakers, an Outlaw receiver and a Sony multi-disc CD changer that had the first modification from Tube Research Labs.

My original intent was to send it back to TRL for them to do their latest modifications on it and tighten it up a bit since discs skip a lot or don't read well, but in doing my research online it seems there's a lot of controversy about TRL.

Basically I want to spend $500-$700 tops for a new or used CD player that's a giant killer. I'd love to have a modified multi-disc player if those exist that equal the sound quality of a single disc player, but I'm open. I need suggestions, and if anyone can give me any info on the work and honesty of TRL I'd appreciate it as well - I haven't updated my set-up in a LONG time but am ready to make a change.
soulgoober
raymonda
855 posts
 
A used Meridian is an excellent recommendation. However, my limited experience with the Rega line, I owned a first gen Planet, says it is not a giant killer. It is a slow, soft sounding player. Non offensive but limited in resolution and attack.

Oppo are the way I would go.

That being said, I agree with the comment about limited transport life, which is why I refuse to invest too much on a player.
lou_setriodes's avatar
lou_setriodes
688 posts
 
I recently saw a Proceed PCD2 for under $700 that retailed for like $2250 back in the day.  I was lucky enough to pick one up years ago in mint condition at an audio show for $400 and never should have sold it.  

I see this is an old thread, what did you end up getting?
simao's avatar
simao
1,839 posts
 
Another vote for the Oppo

and, if you can find one, the venerable and highly lauded Rotel 1072
gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
OP, if it's just red book CD, in the price range you've specified, you certainly want to consider an Emotiva ERC-3. Better than the OPPO if just red book CD is the goal.
boxer12
8,656 posts
 
Parasound Zdac sounds way better than it should for the price. I've used it with an old pioneer elite player & it sounded good. I suspect it would sound even better with a new cambridge transport. They run $450 through audio adviser. You should be able to find a used Parasound Zdac for a couple hundred or less.   
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