CD transports; do they really matter


In my pursuit of total sonic harmony, I have been investigating whether a CD transport ( to replace my bulky and aged Luxman CD player ) would be a good option.  I had an interesting conversation with the manufacturers rep of a respected brand regarding his companies CD transport.  He basically said its all in the DAC, the transport, as long as its not a cheap component, does not make much or any difference. So, I ask does it really matter?

mdrone

@charles1dad :

Lucky for you that placement is easy!  

I don't see a CDT3 on the Jay's website-- there's a CDT2 MK3. . . is that what you mean?  I know they'll supply replacement lasers but not sure about the actual drive. If I bought the Jay's, I'd want a spare. 

@mdrone :

Well, some of it is gone, which is why I don't play my electric guitar anymore (although I haven't had the heart to sell it, yet) and also why I have an SPL meter within reach of my listening chair ;o)

@stuartk 

The CDT3 was their flagship but I think it is no longer produced likely due to lack of Phillips CD Pro-2 units available as spares. They don’t have this problem with the CDM4 units for their CDT2 transport.

Charles

@stuartk 

When Teajay (Terry London) reviewed the Pro-Ject RS2T  he mentioned that the Jay’s Audio CDT2 MK II was better sounding than his CEC, MBL, P.S.Audio PWT and his Accustic  Arts transports. Quite the very high praise. I believe that you would be ecstatic with the CDT2 current version MK III. If the RS2T weren’t around that would definitely have been my choice.

Charles

@charles1dad: 

Thanks, Charles; that's very encouraging!

I've e mailed Jay's re: availability of spare drives. 

I'd still like to move to a top-loader but naturally am wary of the infamous "boat anchor syndrome". 

If I had the $, I'd just buy the Aqua Diva and be done with it. . . and a matching Formula DAC (why not?).but that's not likely. 

@stuartk

Well the Aqua Hifi Diva II would get you the coveted CD Pro-8 drive/Blue Tiger -84 servo integrated drive unit re RS2T. However for the cost I don’t believe that you will beat the Jay’s CDT2 transport. Just my 2 cents.

Charles