Yikes! Hyper detail is what I have..would like midrange warmth yet do not want rounded bass notes, detailed but not so analytical...I want my music back! help! $1000 used + - Already have owned a Jolida thanks
For smooth and rich cdp at about $1000, I would go with Cary 303/100 or 303/200. Modwright (platinum mod) sony would be even better if you can find one for cheap.
Your system synergy seems to lean toward surgical precision rather than a comfy massage.
I notice there is not a tube in sight in your gear. I am running the Meridian 508.24 through a Reference Line passive preamp to Atma-Sphere M60 MkII.3's. Speakers are Silverline Sonatas. It is all I want as far as detail, bass and transient speed plus warm without being bloated. Some recordings still suck due to the high resolution but most are listenable.
If you are happy with the Bel Canto maybe trying an external DAC (think tube DAC) would be a less expensive way to see if you are on the right about warming things up with a CDP change or it may just resolve the issue.
I recently listened to the TRL modified Sony DVP-NS900V in a system with VMPS speakers and the sound was fabulous, a great match. Also, this player was used in the VMPS room at CES as their primary source. Brian Cheney purchased a unit of his own and had it modified, that should say something. It will be a bit tough to locate a used unit (they are no longer manufactured) but will be worth it if you can. Call Brian Cheney at VMPS and ask him what he thinks of the player.
The AA Prima is warm & lush. By comparison, the Rega, the Arcam, the Cary & the Meridian sound more chiseled, not warm AT ALL in my opinion. Am I saying that the others sound bad? Nope. But if he wants warmth, the Prima has it in spades over the others. Could have something to do with them tubes, eh? :-)))
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.
