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want a CD player upgrade

Hi,I am currently using my Cambridge audio 851C with new SR blue fuses and a Synchro Mesh reclocker as a transport and using the DAC in my McIntosh C2600 preamp. I would like to upgrade. In the past I've had a Sim audio player in a different system, which I liked, in the last 2 years I've tried PS audio transport and DAC and another highly reviewed DAC both sounded a bit different but not better, meaning just a different digital sounding unit. I now live in South Carolina so I know of no place to listen to players. I think I would prefer a single piece player rather than a separate transport and DAC but i'm flexible on that preference. I've read nice reviews on the New Bryston player, as well as the Marantz Ruby, CEC also seems well regarded. I love the sound of analog but have too many CD's to give up on that part of my habit. Have you heard any of the above players? If not what would you recommend ? I would like not to spend more that 4K but I will admit (sadly) I've gone over budget a few times in my life.Thanks
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twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
I have the Bryston and a previous generation Luxman ("u").  Both are very good--the Bryston is absolutely neutral, the Luxman a tad (just a tad) warmer.  I'd recommend that new Luxman or the Marantz Ruby.  The Mohican is based on an much older Consonance design (search the threads for discussion).
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donpepe OP
30 posts
 
Thanks for the education. I'm now added MHDT, Luxman, and Audio Mirrors Tubador 3SE to my list. However, I think (hope) I don't pull the trigger unless the dealer has a return policy because I'd hate to buy a piece that doesn't easily best what I already own. Reviews don't have sound although I've generally trusted them. In the recent past I've had to return a well reviewed Benchmark DAC and a PS Audio transport and DAC. The Benchmark didn't sound good with the Class D amps I was using then and the PS audio was not fully functioning on arrival.  It's tough these days with the loss of local brick and mortar stores.Thanks again,Joe
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,733 posts
 
donpepe

Being in SC, you are between Atlanta and Charlotte/Raleigh NC.
In Atlanta check out HiFi Buys. In NC check out Audio Advice.
Keep us posted on players considered for purchase.

Happy Listening!
bigkidz
3,387 posts
 
I’d point you toward NOS R2R DACs   really there are several Chinese DACs that I would not say are good sounding?  you cannot just make a comment like that without a reference.

If I were in your shoes I would get an Electocompaniet one up CDP and be done with this.

Happy Listening.
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donpepe OP
30 posts
 
Hi gang,Your advice is much appreciated, The more I research the more confusing things get, at this point my budget of $2.5K appears to have gone bye bye.@soix  I have become interested in the R2R DACs, primarily the Denafrips Terminator and the Audio Mirror Tubador 3SE. Alvin the Denafrips distributor is very responsive but I remain concerned that they are in Singapore and have a no return policy. Audio Mirror may be out of business I have emailed them at least twice without a response. Since they are here in the states I was a lot more interested in buying from them. But sad to say they are unresponsive to customer requests on how to purchase their products. Have any of you heard either of these two DACs? Any info on what happened to Audio Mirror?
@akg_ca The ISIS unit on audiogon is $6K used, that's a touch more than I was thinking of spending, never heard it either.@gestalt The website makes no mention of Luxman or prices, additionally haven't heard a LUXMAN unit in over 30 years.I agree that I probably need to work on my room a bit more and am working with Jim Smith on doing just that.
As Always I appreciate your courtesy and consideration as well as the advice offered.Joe
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