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Suggestions for New CD Player

I'm looking for a new CD player, modestly priced under $1,500, that will  work well with a 2-channel system featuring B&W 804S floorstanders, a McIntosh MC402 power amp, and a Magnum Dynalab MD208 receiver used as a preamp.

My wife and I mostly listen to classical music, and have an extensive CD collection, particularly heavy in orchestral (e.g., Mahler, Beethoven) and opera (Wagner, Verdi) and piano/violin.  (My wife is a Julliard-trained musician.)   Pre-pandemic, we were frequent concert-goers, preferring about rows 8-15.  We also rock out on occasion. We appreciate fine equipment, but we're music-lovers rather than true audiophiles.

We previously had a Consonance Droplet CD player (tubed, nice sound quality, when it worked, which wasn't often enough) and a Lexicon RT-20 (a little harsh, and wouldn't play many discs).  I won't buy a used player.  In my experience, CD mechanisms are the most fragile of all components.

I realize I'm asking a lot at this price point, but life itself is compromise.  Don't really care about wireless capability or digital files.  SACD is nice, but redbook capability is what really matters to us.  Considering Cambridge Audio 851, Rega Apollo, but open to suggestions.

Your thoughts?






gg107
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
There are many excellent reasons still to buy a one-box CDP in this day and age.  Anyone with a modicum of imagination could grasp that.

If you weren't budget-limited, the Marantz SA-KI Ruby would be by far the best recommendation, and one I'm sure you would be delighted with.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Given that you wish for a new CD player, you will have some difficulty finding one with the TDA 1541 chips in them. They have been out of production for a long time - 25 years?
I prefer the R2R  PCM1702 and PCM1704 over the TDA1541 they are still around in CD players. But what would be really nice to see, is a manufacturer make a CD player using discrete R2R dac inside, this has yet to be done. (I think)

Cheers George 
alucard19
360 posts
 
check the reviews for this one Rotel RCD-1572 new for under $1,000.

corelli
952 posts
 
I have owned Cambridge--nice detail, Rotel years ago, a good player but too bright, and more recently Marantz spinners.  These are my default suggestion. ESPECIALLY given you enjoyment of classical music. I owned the 8005 years ago.  A huge value, solid build, easy recommendation on a budget.  A gently used KI Ruby, which is what I now own, is an unmistakable step up in their line.  Nice detail but never harsh. Huge soundstage, recreates the venue very accurately.  Great all around player.

Given the helpful info you provided, I would suggest a Marantz player over the ones on your short list.

P.S.  Doesn't it bug you when you clearly state your needs and some try to steer you towards streaming or players that clearly do not meet your needs.  Brother.  

Good luck on your search.
allears4u
130 posts
 
Dear gg107....if you can act fast Accessories 4less have a Yamaha S2100 player REFURBISHED for around $1500ish. The retail is $3500. It is just below their flagship model. I've owned a series of cd players including NAD, Oppo, Cambridge Audio....The Yamaha is on a different level completely but be quick...
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