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What is the best redbook CD player for 6K to 8K?

I am looking for the best redbook CD player for 6K to 8K that will project a 3 dimensional hologram-like sound image. I am considering the Mark Levinson 390S CD player. I am open for suggestions concerning comparisons between this and other CD players of equal or better sound quality. Universal players are out of the running since I own only redbook CDs. The fickle finger of fate has not made up it's mind about the next generation of media technology. So until then I will be patient and enjoy what I have.
redwoodgarden
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Thank you Brent, much appreciated! Guido
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,412 posts
 
Hey Redwoodgarden, any news? How did the search end?
Or is it still work in progress? Just curious what was your choice or what did you like out of the units you auditioned.
ralphww
5 posts
 
I suggest to give the ARC CD-7 a listen before you buy in this price range!
This player is very musical without any digital harshness, very good 3d soundstage and it reproduces the human voice natural and engaging!
It is my favourite cdp at this time and i use it with outstanding belles 28a pre and two belles 350 A Reference monoblocks, speakers are SPTech Revelations MKII.
A comparison between CD7 and EMMLabs would be interesting, i couldn´t do that at my home untill now but would be very interested in arguments from people who compared both directly in one session!
Enjoy music and take care,
Ralph
vsfang
54 posts
 
Ayre C-5xe of course
redwoodgarden OP
150 posts
 
I have concluded that the best redbook player for me is not what I expected at all. The best sounding CD player is actually a universal player. The Esoteric UX-03 is in my price range (maybe a little over) and is the best sounding player that I've heard. It's built like a tank so I know it is reliable; and it also plays SACDs and DVDs which is icing on the cake. I know that in the future if I want to broaden my horizons, the option is there. I foresee that the only other player I'll need is a highend Bluray player which will play all media with the highest perceivable detail. This is only a pipe dream at this time. For the here and now, Esoteric UX-03 will fit my needs.
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