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What do modern, current day CD Transports do that older CDP's with RCA digital out don't?

I have read a few posts saying that even a modern inexpensive CD transport can sound better with modern DACs than older, more expensive CD players equipped with digital outputs (RCA digital output).

I understand very old CD players with optical outputs only can be poorer sounding due to the optical interface. But I would be curious to learn about how a nice $2000 Sony ES or Marantz higher grade CD player from 12-15 years ago, with RCA digital out won’t work just as well feeding a DAC as say, an modern Audiolab slot loading transport for about $600.  Let's consider the older player is working without problems, like bad laser or mechanical problems.

Hopeful that someone here can explain what the new stuff has on board that works in their favor.

troidelover1499
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 

I was listening to my system last night, using the Oppo UDP 203 with a new Linear Power Supply, and I came to realize my system sounds about as good as any I've heard anywhere, even with my 75 year old ears.

I am now very pleased with the Oppo 203, it's working out great. It's getting harder to find good affordable  universal players anymore, and I have quite a few multi-channel discs I enjoy listening to.

Regards,

Dan

troidelover1499 OP
253 posts
 

ALright thanks again for all your input.  The reviews were useful to watch.

facten
2,758 posts
 

@troidelover1499 - I’d suggest doing some research on transports in your price range as others have noted.; and if you are located in the US Audio Advisor lists a few models  in that range, and they offer a 30 day return policy.

I am in the quality of the transport provides SQ improvement camp. I had the Cambridge CXC , which is in your price range, pretty competent transport with good sound quality. It replaced an April Music transport that stopped working and was comparable to it. I moved up to a Simaudio 260D which is more money and the increase in SQ was noticeable.

Let your ears be the judge and don’t be dissuaded by others from at least accessing for yourself.. Good luck with whatever decision you make whether you try one or not.

davide256's avatar
davide256
395 posts
 

if your CDP sounds better than streaming, it pretty much says you have not kept up in the "arms race" for a streaming setup. As a comparison benchmark, I highly recommend auditioning an Innuos Zen mini w/ LPS before spending money on any CDP.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,235 posts
 

if your CDP sounds better than streaming, it pretty much says you have not kept up in the "arms race" for a streamin set up.

I disagree, they can definitely go toe to toe, you can easily increase the sound quality with either a transport or music server/streamer. It depends on how far one is willing to go in terms of budget comfort zone.

Both of these digital source components can range from "just ok" to uber level of performance. Examples of superb design, engineering and implementation exist for either source  options.

Charles

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