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

Yes @nonoise

Terrific SB game!

@stuartk

I understand that you have to feel comfortable with a component. The smaller scale form factor was chosen as to require less shelf space. The irony for me is that the small physical size is yielding huge sound field. Makes me think of Nagra. Every bit as fluid and music flowing as my old WellTempered turntable set up (Which bettered my Linn Sondek LP-12). Pro-Ject engineers did their homework on this one. 

Charles

CDT3-MK2 Flagship CDT

 

 

"I was so taken with the Terminator driven by the Jay’s Audio CDT-3 MK2 that I have bought two sets of both, one for each system, and sold my previous digital gear which included an Esoteric K-03x. The Terminator blew away the Esoteric’s DAC and the CDT-3 MK1 blew away the Esoteric’s transport. The Terminator is finely built, an ergonomically excellent functional design, comes with a 3 year warranty, and most importantly sounds excellent. And for me it is a bargain at its price. I wholeheartedly recommend it and the excellent Jay’s Audio CDT-3 MK2 for your consideration. And last but not least, the worldwide distributor, Alvin of Vinshine Audio provides service second to none. Thanks for reading. "

 

@stuartk

This is the model I was referring to above that used the Phillips CD PRO 2 drive unit.

Charles

@charles1dad I got a LPS about 5 or 6 weeks ago and its just improved to silly good level.

At this price point I’m quite disappointed that Pro-Ject does not include an internal linear power supply.

Should there be disadvantages with this approach I must have blinked.

What pearls of wisdom did you discover in your recent LPS research and adventure? I know very little about the nuances of external LPS units, so another learning curve I guess.

And now I see that Terry London has written about this error of judgement in his review, but doesn't quite get to mentioning internal PS.  

I'm currently trying to digest his word block, deliberately designed to make my three neurons fight with each other.  And I'm not even dyslexic.