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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
majorc
78 posts
 

I can't recall the models but a toshiba dvd player, an NAD cd player, sony blu ray player, Denon cd player, and a couple others - nothing very expensive although the NAD was a well built model.   Yes the A/B was with the same coax cable and dac.  I usually hear any fine differences but could not.    

ghdprentice
7,064 posts
 

@majorc 

 

And the DAC, preamp, amp and speakers you played them through?

majorc
78 posts
 

DAC: ifi micro idsd   No Preamp - the DAC has a volume control  - ran direct to quicksilver M60 monoblocks - speakers Eminent technology LFT 8Bs.  

jl35
4,017 posts
 

lots of CD and DVD players use the same transport...

ghdprentice
7,064 posts
 

@majorc

 

Thank you. I understand.

 

@jl35

 

Yes, you are correct. However, high end equipment will incorporate transports in heavy dampening structures to reduce vibration, feed the exceptionally clean power, isolate from electronic noice and get a tremendously better sound quality.

Also, you need a system of a certain level of resolution and fidelity before differences in transports start making a difference. In general, the better the system the more obvious and important the sonic differences in a transport.

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