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

nobody here has a DAC/PWT synergy or CDT/PWT interaction databse that they can immediately refer to and spit out an answer. These are issues that you can only resolve for yourself by listening. Even if somebody were to give you an answer, how are you sure that their taste is going to be the same as yours? It’s a bit like asking someone to tell you what pair of speakers to buy. And people do that too..

Cannot believe a rep would say that about his own products.

at least he had the decency to identify himself as such.

too much “silent running“ going on

I do fully understand the reply.

There are ex PWT owners who I believe at one point of ownership were content with this choice.

I also know there are members within this forum, of which some will have experienced this and have exchanged the PWT for a Different Model/Brand of CDT or even possibly did not continue with a CDT and took on another digital source.

I was hoping to be offered a few thoughts from a member or two,  on what was the new experience and noticeable difference that they encountered, to help them make the decision to exchange the device.

       

@pindac

 I was hoping to be offered a few thoughts from a member or two,  on what was the new experience and noticeable difference that they encountered, to help them make the decision to exchange the device.

Hi

I share your admiration for the P.S.Audio Memory PWT.  It is in my opinion an exceptionally good CD transport and furthermore very reliable. I owned this transport purchased new and kept it for 12 very enjoyable years. It has stood the test of very well and still one of the better quality choices available today.

The existence of the Pro-Ject CD Box CD Box RS2T transport  caught my attention as It had received high praise from former PWT and Jay's Audio CDT2 MK  II owners. The Jay's Audio CDT2 owners familiar with the PWT preferred the Jay's. 

I can say without hesitation that as good as my PWT is, the Pro-Ject RS2 transport is better across the board.  Simultaneously more resolved, dynamic more of an organic and fluid presentation. It did this with the supplied SMPS wall wart.  It is truly an excellent CD transport that elevated to stunningly good/superb when I replaced the wall wart with a LPS.

Obviously you'd have to listen and judge for yourself.  Based on anecdotal and unscientific feedback from owners the ranking appears to be 

Pro-Ject CD Box RS2T 

Jay's Audio CDT2 MK II/III

P.S.Audio PWT (Previous generation) I haven't seen comparisons with the current SACD/CD transport. 

Charles 

       

the current PS Audio Transport, PST, is significantly better than all their previous transports...I have owned the previous 2...all used with the PS Audio Directstream DAC...