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Two-channel SACD player recommendations?

I'm looking at getting into SACD and seeking recommendations for a two-channel SACD player (preferably under $1000). I'm not necessarily averse to a universal player or multi-channel player, but this would be for a strictly two-channel music-only set-up, and it seems I would do better for my money to focus only on just that. I'm aware of the Marantz 8001 as well as the Music Hall Maverick (but don't have easy access to a dealer with either). Has anyone heard the 8001? Other suggestions for places to look? Thanks much!

John
john_adams_sunnyvale
jsd52756
433 posts
 
Ditto on the Sony product. Mine is a SCD333 & it sounds "cleaner than a Safeway chicken" on my Krell system. Never a problemo' nor a hiccup.
Good luck, John
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
i recently auditioned the marantz 8260 at Harvey's in Greenvale (NY), with mac gear and martin logan speakers.

the sound is too detailed for my taste. i suspect that the 8001 is very similar.

as for the oppo, i just auditioned a modified opp 970 in my stereo system.

if you like resolution and vividness, this is the player for you.

i think i prefer my quad 99 cdp2, which although i may sell it, is more forgiving than the modified oppo.
tonyptony
617 posts
 
i think i prefer my quad 99 cdp2, which although i may sell it...

Mrt, I've heard good things about the 99 CDP2. Can you give me a bit more about how you think it sounds?
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
tonyptony:

i will specify the components interfaced with it:

magnepan 1.6s, vtl deluxe 120 monos, bent audio transformer based passive preamp.

the quad is closer to neutral than either lean or warm. the frequency response is well balanced, although no component is perfect. it errs ever so slightly by providing somewhat more energy in the upper midrange and lower treble. soundstage width and depth are good and bass response is not lacking.

i am looking for another cd player now. one which has some euphonic coloration, with more of an emphasis in the lower midrange,than the upper midrange or lower treble. a player which smooths out sibilance from closed miked female vocalists and takes cds with splashy cymbals and "wiry" sounding violins and removes the harshness. in short, i am looking for a "dark" sound with a distant perspective.

therefore, i will probably sell the quad cd player. i have owned the player for about 6 months.
sonicbob
31 posts
 
Hi John,
Bondmanp asked what tubed cd player my friend had. It was a Unison? not sure what model. I was surprised to hear that the Marantz 8001 was a little smoother than a tubed cd player. Maybe it was the tubes,not sure what he was using for tubes. I think they were Mullards. The rest of his system was a tube pre-amp a Audio Research tube amp and the speakers Totems and Von Schweikert VRs.

Cheers
Bob
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