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What is the best CD player direct into one's amp?

Since I don't listen to FM (poor reception) and seldom use my vinyl (too noisy), what red book player has the best analogue volume section and sound for direct connection to my Threshold 4000 class A amp? I am looking for something in the $1000-2000 range on audiogon. The other possibility is to slightly warm up and expand the soundstage of my maggie 1.6 system with a tube preamp and continue using my very musical McCormack DAC-1 deluxe. Thanks
55dok
reubent
7,076 posts
 
I have owned and used several CD players or DACs with volume control. Here is the List:

Theta Miles (balanaced)
Cary CD-308
Quad 99 CDP
Resolution Audio Opus 21
Birdland Odeon Lite DAC
Monarchy Audio Model 33 DAC/pre-amp
Musical Fidelity CD/Pre-24 DAC/pre-amp

Personally, for value, I thought the Quad 99 CDP was the best. It sounded very good and only cost $800-850 used. It also had 6 additional digital inputs so you could add other digital components if you desire. Heck, you could buy one used, try it and resell it for little/zero loss if you didn't love it.

Overall, the best sounding from my list was the Resolution Audio Opus 21. Unfortunately, I have never seen one sell for under about $2400.

The Cary CD-308 is not bad for about $800 used. I've read that the Cary CD-308T (tube) is significantly better and it sells for about $1300 used.

Enjoy,

TIC
distortion
571 posts
 
I am using a Resolution Audio CD55 in this manner and love it. Used, about $1200 to $1400 or so.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,594 posts
 
The 308T is also very good as I had this player. I agreee with Reubent on this. I also owned the Quad I found it to be one of the biggest disappointments I have had in audio.

I so agree with Reubent on the Opus and Cary and am not sure why we are on the opposite extremes on the Quad. I found the Quad very electronic sounding. Not musical at all and rather lifeless. System matching my be an issue, I don't know. I found the preamp section paired with the player even worse yet.

Love to hear other comments on their experience with the Quad. Mine was the 2nd generation model as an FYI.

Bill
glai's avatar
glai
446 posts
 
Wadia 302 also sounds pretty good. Some interconnects work better than others for connecting directly to amp
lotus1
52 posts
 
Visit the website for EVS passive attenuators.There is a through discussion of what is involved in setting up a direct to amp system.I'm presently using the EVS passive attenuators between my theta DAC and Amp.I also use it for my phono stage.I plan to take this configuration a step further by having amps modified so they will take a direct connection without a volume control.
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