Acoustic Quality (Aqua?) has introduced its new La Diva II transport based on the CD 8 Stream Unlimited mechanism, About half the price of the Accustic Arts but still up there.
Considering the Pro-ject Box CD RS2 Transport ? You might want to read this, first.
I recently bought one of these and soon returned it.
In terms of SQ, it clearly outperformed my Simaudio 260DT so I've no complaints in that regard.
However, I could not get used to its toy-like dimensions.
It would not stay stationary, due to its light weight, so I had to hold it in place with one hand while operating its tiny buttons and loading/unloading discs with the other.
Needless to say, this issue was only exacerbated once I placed it atop my preferred footers.
While audiophile geishas may find it ideally-sized, I found it highly impractical.
Given that our only current choices for this new drive are the Pro-ject and the 28K Gryphon, it would seem there's an empty niche in the market for a reasonably affordable alternative, housed in a full-sized case.
To be fair, Steve Guttenberg did grumble a little about ergonomics but on the whole, reviewers' attention has been fixed squarely upon the Pro-ject's undeniable virtues.
I'm not suggesting everyone will experience what I've experienced nor am I attempting to dissuade anyone from buying this unit- my aim here is simply to shine a light on what's been, so far at least, largely absent from discussions I've encountered.
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I posted about that in another thread but here it is again for those who are interested: https://www.hifi-advice.com/blog/industry-update/aqua-la-diva-m2-cd-transport-industry-update/ It's a real looker and seems to have the performance to back it up. All the best |
@stuartk, I’m surprised that you interpret my post like that ’initially ’. I did not dispute your assessment or concerns at all. You made valid points. My objective was to make it known that the issues you identified are IMO easily correctable. My RS2 sits solidly atop of 3 Star Sound Audio points with the inverted brass disc. I completely understand that the small form factor doesn’t work for you, no problem at all. I just see it as a case of a very fixable problem and then you’re left with an outstanding sounding CD transport. It may not be for everyone but I believe it represents the opportunity for many to obtain a reasonably priced very high level performing audio component. I took zero offense to your post @stuartk. Charles |
@stuartk Thank you for your carefully worded summary of the ergonomics of the transport. These kinds of things are important to many, but not important to some. I assure you, if I was purchasing one this would be of great importance to me. My CD player is 33 pounds and can’t be pushed around. I like that. |
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