2. digital
  3. 168028-304

CDP or DAC?

I want to get back to playing and enjoying my 500+ cd's!  Been listening 95% of the time to a nice high end turntable $15k+ setup but would also like to have the option of listening to my cd collection to where it sounds at least competitive with my vinyl enjoyment.

I have no interest in streaming just playing cd's.   Does it make more sense to go with a cdp or transport and separate dac?

Budget $5 - $15k.  Thoughts
bobheinatz
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
get a sony scd-1 vsei modded level 6

or a modwright modded sony or marantz s-cdp w tube output and tube rectification

spend the rest on more cd’s

good luck n happy listening
yyzsantabarbara
4,925 posts
 
Listening to my Sony SCD-1 vset modded Level 5+ tonight and it always puts a smile on my face. Listening to Dark Side of the Moon on SACD is always a treat.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,883 posts
 
Another +vote for CDP. And SACD player too!

Happy Listening!
tarheelneil51
37 posts
 
Ripped CDs have the convenience and better portability.  Many claim a good CDP sounds better, though.  For CD playing, I’d go with the PS Audio DirectStream DAC paired with their Perfect Wave SACD transport, $12,500 for the pair.  The DAC is a Stereophile A+ rated model.  If you can wait a few months, PS Audio should have a MK II version of the DAC out in the December to March time frame, and although pricing hasn’t been announced, I expect that to increase the package price by $1000-$1500.  The MK II will be FGPA based, like it’s predecessor, but have a lot more room on the arrays for great programmability.  
mahler123
3,388 posts
 
OP, at your budget you have outstanding alternatives.  I would favor the transport-DAC route since DAC technology evolves and every few years a new development may strike your fancy.  Also if you ever decide to add other digital sources such as a streamer then you are set to go.  I would spend 1/3 on the budget and 2/3 on the DAC 
More to discover