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Hypothetical - CD or SACD Player?

I'd like to hear some of your sentiments please. In the $1000 to $2000 price range (new or used), would my money be better spent on a CD player or an SACD player? Assume that whether or not I already have the discs to play is not an issue. Also ignore the myriad factors necessary to make a fully informed data-driven decision. I've read all the reviews I could find, but now am just looking for some good old-fashioned opining. But please, only from those who have spent some serious time listening to both formats. Thanks.
_mike
aplhifi
515 posts
 
The difference between CD and SACD/DVD-A/DAD is huge in favor of the latter. Problem is that you need SOTA player to hear it. In your given price range, I'd probably go for a well done CD playback, although the CD/SACD Esoteric SA-10 would be something worth it to look at and save for, especially if you like and own SACDs.

Regards,
Alex
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
this question cannot be answered without further input from you.

from my own experience, a vintage tube cd player is preferable to a current production sacd player. why ?

i prefer the classic tube sound, which is unattainable from any sacd player i have auditioned.
wwshull
157 posts
 
i just bought an sa- 10 and am extremly impressed. i would also reccomnd this piece of equipment
_mike OP
2 posts
 
Hi Alex,
Thanks for your reply. Further questions - As examples, it looks like a used Sony SCD-1 can be had for around $2K, and a used Marantz SA14 for about $1K. Would you say that neither of these would be a wise choice compared to a "better" CD player? Is the SA-10 (and its price) the break point at which SACD players begin to shine?
Mike
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