CD Transport Question


I've recently acquired a Naim NAC 272 which I'm using as a pre-amp, streamer and DAC. I really like the Naim sound.

I have hundreds of CDs and am contemplating purchasing a single CD Transport. The brick and mortar store where I purchased the used NAC 272 told me the Naim CD options do not have the appropriate connections to be used solely as a transport. He also sold Rega, but said that brand didn't "play well" with the NAC 272. His suggestions were the Marantz 6007 run in digital-out mode and/or the Cambridge Audio CXC v2 (or even the AXC35 or Yamaha CD-303). His thought was I only need to purchase for the transport itself as the DAC in the NAC 272 will be superior to any DACs found in CD players [otherwise] up to $2,000. 

In my research, other options I've seen of mention are the: Denon DCD-900NE; Audiolab 6000CDT; LEAK CDT; NAD C568; Roksan Attessa CD; Rotel CD14 MKII; CEC TL5; and the Yamaha CDS1000. 

Can you share your experiences or thoughts with any of these Transports [or Players with Digital-out to bypass the CD unit's internal DACs]? Do some of the lesser priced models have the same laser and other CD moving parts where the higher priced options from those manufacturers are simply being poured into the DAC? Are there others I should consider at or under $1,200? I've read sufficient comments suggesting I should not purchase a CD transport or player used. If there's a transport [used] that might be an exception, however, please do share that info as well.

Many thanks. 

northbeach

+1 for Cambridge CXC V2 CD Transport. I've had good luck with mine, it's a nice mid-level unit. Reliable and sounds great.

That's not to say there isn't significant merit to ripping your CD's. However, as you're looking for a CD Transport, I have to assume you'd prefer playing the physical media. 

Good luck!

I also have the audiolab cdt 6000 and have no issues with it.  I also upgraded the power cord which is plugged into a PS audio power regenerator.

I still enjoy once in a while the physical aspect of looking through my cds and actually picking one out and playing it. I primarily stream tidal and qobuz but I also enjoy playing a cd from time to time.  It also brings back memories to when I actually purchased the cd, etc.

Had the Audiolab cdt 6000 and returned it...wasn't happy with the lack of dimension and soundstage....got the CEC ( Japanese) TL5....wow,  what a difference. It's Belt driven. Well worth the xtra $.

Pro-Ject Box Designs CD Box DS2T at $900.00 has gotten a lot of good write-ups.

Project seems to be hit or miss on its quality control - read the thread on its $3K transport.