CDP with volume and digital input...Which one?

Audiobb,

Unfortunately the Wadia and Cary were used in a different system and room then the Accuphase.

I will say the Wadia is an all around better player than the Cary BUT costs twice as much with the upgrade.

A recent player of mine, the APL 3910 is very dynamic with a more forward presentation than the Accuphase. Both have excellent low end. I think the APL would also be a strong contender but lacks the build quality of the Accuphase or Wadia.

The Accuphase has a more laid back (relaxed if you will) presentation. It is a great musical player with killer detail. It does very well with rock, which is what I mostly listen to, I’m just not positive how it’s presentaion will work with heavy metal. If you desire a more in your face (or upfront) presentation, I would choose the APL, Wadia 861 or 581SE.

Yes, you can run the Accuphase directly to the amp. I’m currently doing so—also with Gabriel Gold interconnects.

Jim

Based upon your requirements you should take a pass on the Wadia 581/se; the bass is light.

The Wadia 581se is the best one box player I have ever heard and it sounds great hooked up direct to amps.

Priz,
I am surprised you also have Gabriel Gold ICs.I find them excellent.What is you opinion on these cables?

About Cd players - i believe my system will have relaxed presentation anyway, i think i need a more dynamic player.
What about Cary 306/200? Everywhere i looked at,it is very positively reviewed.Can anyone compare this player to Wadia 850 or 861(with or without GNSC)?
ALSO- CD playback is important to me, SACD not.Is 861se or 581se better on CD?Can someone clear this up a bit?
And how much better are they than 850?Is 581 or 861 worth the extra cash, compared to 850?
Thanks

Audiobb, my opinion of the Gabriel Golds is that they are an outstanding cable. Many positives have been written about these cables so I guess a lot of people find them to be a great interconnect.

It’s been too long for me to comment on the Cary 306/200. I owned it several years ago.

My best advice on the Wadias is to call Steve Huntley at Great Northern Sound. He modded my 861 and can answer any Wadia question probably better than anyone.

Jim