CD transports; do they really matter

@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...

the current PS Audio Transport, PST, is significantly better than all their previous transports

Well then 3 terrific choices,  new P.S.Audio,  Jay's Audio CDT2 MK III and the Pro-Ject CD Box RS2T. 

Charles 

@charles1dad Thank You for sharing your experiences and how the impression made from the new device proved to offer attraction to the measure where it influenced the choice that was made to exchange the PWT for the Project CD Box RS2 T.

After the reports I have read, I have the pre-empted thoughts that I am to encounter a similar experience. 

As stated I can receive a demonstration of Jay's Audio CDT's as there are models on demonstration local to my home. With a little thought put into the planning, I might be able to have a home loan of the Project and use the PWT, Project and Jay's all in one demonstration session.

@jl35 Thank You for your contribution and making your thoughts on the performance of the Perfect Wave PST known, especially how it is comparing to the PWT Model that I use. The PST model will cost approx' £6500  ($9000)in the UK.   This figure is beyond the value I would go to as a price for a Transport.

As an additional preparation, does it make sense to continue with a COAX Cable as the CDT > DAC Interface,  if their are upcoming demonstrations being planned, or will another type of umbilical cable be better to be used for the intended demonstrations? 

Completely missed the Bel Canto e.One CDt3 transport. Part Time Audiophile favorite.

I have had one for a couple years now and the only transport I would consider in it's place would be the 260D by Simaudio.