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
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.
You could probably pick up an old Mark Levinson CD player for a song...no pun intended! 
+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.


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!

Elizabeth + 1. 
I agree that a really good SACD player makes for a great CD player. 
I have tha Marantz SA-15S-2b and my CDs sound wonderful. 

Also, Matej Isak of Mono & Stereo feels that outside of the recording studio, he's yet to hear anything better a well recorded CD or SACD on a top grade CD or SACD player. There's still life in them thar CDs.

All the best,
Nonoise