2. digital
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New or Old CD Player?

Let's say I have $5K, tops, to buy a CD player. I don't need digital inputs, outputs, etc. I don't need to spin SACD's. I only intend to play Redbook CD's and want a one-box solution. Would my money be better spent on a new unit, like maybe a Hegel Mohican? Or should I buy a component that was close to state of the art a decade ago? Like maybe a Simaudio 750D, or an Audio Research Reference CD8? Thoughts?
imgoodwithtools
cakids
166 posts
 
FWIW, 
I have a Marantz SA-11 Mk 2, modied with a vacuum tube output by Underwood HI-Fi. About 8 years old - about $4-5k then. Nothing I’ve heard in my system bests it so far. Also have a Cambridge cd deck feeding a Mytek Brooklyn dac. Sound is different, but most people prefer the Marantz. Tried to sell it once for 2500, but wound up keeping it. 
Hope Audio Research works for you.
imgoodwithtools OP
236 posts
 
I've heard a lot of good things about Luxman. Mike at Suncoast Audio tried selling me on a Luxman D-08u. Said it was the most analog unit he's ever heard. I settled on the more detailed T+A unit. But Luxman should be a brand for consideration.
rinpoche
154 posts
 
You could probably pick up an old Mark Levinson CD player for a song...no pun intended! 
vtech2000's avatar
vtech2000
23 posts
 
+1 for Sony 999ES / Signature Truth modifications by ModWright (superclock, tube output stage with external tube rectified power supply, etc.):

https://positive-feedback.com/Issue14/modwright999ES.htm

Truly unbeatable.  Say what you will.  I have still not heard better yet.


jafant's avatar
jafant
19,602 posts
 

Outstanding! elizabeth


Give a shout-out for the Marantz dealer/retailer where you auditioned the SA-10. This player is on my demo -list as well.

Happy Listening!

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