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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
Ag insider logo xs@2xdonpepe
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,618 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
3,381 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.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
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
gestalt's avatar
gestalt
190 posts
 
Hi @donpepe I'm not quite sure what you mean but feel free to give me a call (phone number in my profile picture, or on my website) if you're interested in the Luxman. The D-03X's MSRP is $3295 and I'm happy to send you one to audition.

Cheers,
Colin
soix
9,456 posts
 
Ugh.  Sorry to hear about AM lack of responsiveness.  I’ve not heard about them going out of business, but regardless that’s not good business practice (have you checked your spam mail as sometimes responses from manufacturers go there?).  I’d encourage you to look into the MHDT Orchid (or Pagoda if you can run balanced), which is well reviewed and happily owned by many here.  They should be more responsive, and I know they offer a 30-day trial period.
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