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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
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,928 posts
 

In keeping with the OP's question and not going off into the weeds, there's a review of the CEC TL5 from HIFi+ that says it outperforms their CD5, which is basically the same unit but with a built in DAC (making it a CDP), when using the digital out of both to a DAC.

Over at You/Tube, on the Hans Beekhuzen Channel, he reviews the CEC CD5 and really liked what he heard. In the comments section, someone brought up the Marantz SA-10 (still, a highly regarded CDP) and Hans said the CD5 beat it out by more than a nose. 

So, yes, I think a dedicated CDT is the way to go. When Technics finally gets their act together and starts shipping their SU-G700M2 integrated, I plan on getting the TL5.

All the best,
Nonoise

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

So, yes, I think a dedicated CDT is the way to go. When Technics finally gets their act together and starts shipping their SU-G700M2 integrated, I plan on getting the TL5.

There are  very good quality CD transports available and this would qualify as one of them. I can't imagine there'd be any regrets.

Charles 

nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,928 posts
 

Charles, I sure hope so. 👍 
From what I've read, the Technics is to audio what Sam Colt was to the Wild West: an equalizer, rendering everyone the same. Every review I've read about it that tried different transports all came away with the same findings. No matter the CDT, they all sounded great with the caveat that the better the transport, the better the results in the sound, but even the "lessor" ones sounded great.

All the best,
Nonoise

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@nonoise

Hifi+ reviewer Roy Gregory is very good and thoughtful in his writing approach. He is spot on making the case that CD transports are at their best when dedicated to the singular objective of managing Redbook CD rather than the multi-format/task/feature option.

Put all resources toward the "CD" transport role. No wonder he finds the CEC TL5 to easily sound much better than the CEC CD5 player when used as a transport. In these scenarios, narrow and sharp single purpose focus beats "Jack of all trades" concept. I completely agree. Pro-Ject adapted this same mindset with their RS2T. Do one thing and do it very well. BTW I also agree with his observation regarding top loader versus tray loading CD transports. He is keen and astute in my opinion. 

Charles

nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,928 posts
 

@charles1dad ,

You sure know you're reviewers. 👍
Not to mention your way around a CD player.

All the best,
Nonoise

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