IMO the best approach is cd transport only to external dac. Gives you the most flexibility for upgrades. When the tech changes you upgrade the dac and still maintain the current cd transport. You can even run a second dac just for cd’s. Say you want a tube dac for streaming but r2r for cd you can have that flexibility. I also think with an all in one the manufactures will make compromises to control cost unless you are playing in the 6,000 to 10,000 range.
My Last CD player
I like my vinyl but digital has its own set of benefits. When my last CD player fell of its perch, I move to streaming audio. Overall, I have been happy with this decision. I did notice that lately, a number of posters have been claiming that CD is “better” than streaming. I figured that most of these were flat earthers. I recently had the opportunity to listen to a “new generation” CD player on a friends system. I am not sure I would say it was better but it was different and in a very good way. As I have an extensive CD collection, this set me off to evaluate a new CD player for my system .... at my age presumably the last I will own. I have identified a few different used players that seem to check the short list boxes: Audio Research cd 7 SE, Ayon cd10 Signature II Ultimate, Ayon cd35 Signature I and Luxman
D-06u. I am auditioning the Ayon cd10 at home .... smooth, natural, musical, holographic image, but light on dynamics and soundstage. Anyone have experience with these players? Any other suggestions?
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- 60 posts total
- 60 posts total