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Comparing Wadia vs. Meitner

I believe that this represents the pinnacle of CD playback. Jerry, a fellow audiogoner was gracious enough to allow me to audition his broken-in Meitner CDSD / DCC2. In my system, the boxes were switched with mine, so they each had the same cables, power conditioning, power cords, and stand. Both were run directly into the amp without a preamp. My CD playback system includes the Wadia 27ix / 270se with the latest software and full modifications from Great Northern Sound. Also included are Elrod Statement power cords, a Hydra conditioner, and a Mana rack.

In short, I think that these are both excellent units. They are also very different in what they do. In my system, it was easy to distinguish between the two within several minutes. It probably comes down to personal preference in deciding which is best here. I’ll just simply say that I’m keeping the Wadia because I think it is a perfect match for my musical preferences, my system, and what I appreciate in music.

What I love about the Wadia is its ability to convey an (absolutely) astonishing amount of detail without being harsh or fatiguing. Not only is the melody and rhythm imaged with speed and coherence, but you can actually appreciate the musicians technique, the weight and color of the instrument(s), and the ambience of the recording venue. It simply presents a convincing image of a live event. The emotional quality is all there. You can understand what separates a great and (justly) famous professional musician from a pretty good one. Everything is properly proportioned, the soundstage is appropriate and believable, everything is audible, and the background is silent. From complex orchestral pieces and opera, to vocals, to solo instruments, I do not believe there are any weak spots. Again, it simply convinces and fools the mind into believing that you are sitting in front of the performance. I have frequented the concert halls, and I’d hate to say it but sometimes the recording is better.

I think that just about anybody could probably be happy with either of these 2 systems. Of course, curiosity makes us wonder if the grass is greener. I am just very content with where I am right now. I'd invite Jerry to make some comments when he gets a chance.

Rob
rtn1
bpwalsh
1,198 posts
 
The content of this thread has become sadly laughable. On one side there are people posting their subjective opinions, debating which is better (a good thing), a few of them beating their chests for whatever reasons, some with vested interests. And on the other side you have a couple of industry professionals in a pissing match, fomented by a "I don't want this turn into a battle between us" remark which was accompanied by scurrilous comments.

Let's stick to the facts, let's stop the browbeating and sideways remarks, and let people decide for themselves and support those who conduct themselves professionally and don't feel the urge to badmouth the competition.
robm321
932 posts
 
I am full of of envy, jelousy, and strife because I haven't run out and bought a meinter, oh when will I have peace again...

LOL

We've made our point. I'm ready to move on until the next thread. If it's hype and not about the personal enjoyment and taste in music, I will chime in just to keep the enthusiasm in check. I've seen the hype machine before and it fades...

Rob
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
Steve (GNSC): There was no intention in the other thread to be a "sideways comment". I merely stated the if someone likes the sound of the Wadia, they would like the GNSC mod. Why would that be taken for more than the complement that was made.

I will go on record to clarify that statement. If someone likes the sound of the Wadia player, the mod that Steve Hunley does greatly improves upon the Wadia sound. Nonetheless, it is still a Wadia.

If you want to attempt to read into something that is not there, go ahead.

Essentialaudio: STFU! How is that?
audiobugged
528 posts
 
Jtinn, Wow wasn't that was like treating an open wound with antiseptic, then only to throw salt on it again with "Nonetheless, it is still a Wadia"?

Truce! Prior to this turning into a Southern Appalachian Mountain Feud like the Hatfields and McCoys family feud, that some say started over a pig?

jtinn
1,124 posts
 
Audiobugged & Bombaywalla: I appreciate what both of you are saying and I agree that this is unproductive. I answered the thread as I felt with a proper and honest answer. If Steve Hunley did not like my opinion, so be it. He is attempting to discredit me and that might be what he feels he needs to do.

My feeling on the Wadia has absolutely nothing to do with the work GNSC does. I find it to be mechanical sounding and edgy. For some systems, that might be what is needed. It is always about synergy.
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