problems with 24 bit cd players

Greg, the digital to analog conversion is done with an intergrated circuit. Digital goes into the chip and an analog signal comes out. It is all done inside the chip.

digital signal in ------ chip -------- analog output

You can add tubes at that point but the conversion is done.

Mr. Tennis, why are you looking for a player that is as close as posssible to the Audio Note? If you revere this player and need another one just buy another Audio Note. If you are as thrilled as you seem to be and only hope to come close to it's performance why would you want to replace it? This looks like yet another Mr. Tennis troll.

FWIW Herman (and others), I suspect that MrT's search for a unique product, one with a tonal response that is an anethema to modern audiophile ears, is nothing more or less than the creation of a 'soap box' for him to stand on while he shouts for attention. I find it, alternatively, amusing and boring. :-)

the reason i am not interested in a current production audio note is that it is not 20 bit, does not use a 12 volt tube and does not sound like the audio note cd2.

the reason i am not looking for a cd2 is its age and the chance that the transport , i.e., laser will need replacement. my player is showing signs of wear and has tracking problems. i am looking for a current production cd player that comes as close as possible to the audio note. i don't expect to obtain a carbon copy. if the best i can find is a "neutral" player, i will try to create the sound i am looking for in other ways.

newbee, i respect your right to have an opinion.

i am gratified that you are amused. i too am often amused when reading posts. sometimes real life is funnier than what's on tv. i have a feeling there are some latent comedy writers lurking in these posts.