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CD players with variable output/volume control

Hi - I am a single-source guy, and I want to run a CD player directly to my poweramp. I know there are some good units out there with volume controls on the remote, but I don't know of many. Here are the ones I know of:

Xindak Muse 1.0, 2.0, 3.0
Xindak SCD-2
AH! Njoe Tjoeb 4000
Several Marantz units...

Any other moderately priced units out there? Am I crazy to want to do this? I hate preamps, especially when I only use them for the volume control...
spurzheim
bigkidz
3,333 posts
 
Audio Aero Cap also.
pardales
652 posts
 
If possible I recommend you audition any CDP that you will use direct to amp before you buy it (or atleast buy it used so you have the option of selling it without too much of a loss). I have yet to run a CDP/DAC direct to an amp and prefer it, long term, over using a CDP/DAC with a preamp in the chain.

A few I have tried: Wadia 850, Benchmark DAC1, Apogee Mini-DAC: Just my two cents.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Coincidentally, APL has just announced a new multiformat player with volume control for $1100. The unit sports 4 DAC chips per channel. See:
http://www.aplhifi.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=148&sid=f61f6ea70781efde41a892569a345d1a
A balanced output option is also available for a modest premium.
louisl
181 posts
 
I own an Audio Aero Capitole MkII CDP. It is the only piece in my audio system that I have no plans for replacing or upgrading. It is simply too, too good in every area. I run my amp directly from the Audio Aero. You will never miss a preamplifier (unless you want to add phono, or start adding more inputs). You can't go wrong with the Audio Aero. One of the best CDP's I have ever heard, period!
audiofankj
373 posts
 
I too would have to second the Audio Aero Capitole Mk II CDP....
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