Used CD player for 200-300

The NAD does HDCD as well as the Oppo mentioned earlier. Previously owned and enjoyed the NAD C-541i and currently own an Oppo 980. The 980 is good for the money. The Ultech may have been an excellent player but they are getting old. Reliability may be an issue there.

Jd,

I recall Ultech from many years ago, but haven't heard their name much/any over the last few years. This would concern me if I were thinking of buying a used Ultech. Is the company still in business? Are parts available?

CD players are notorious for needing either laser or transports replaced after they get some age on them. The Ultech is at the age where it could be expected to have a laser or transport failure in the next couple of years (if not sooner).

I'm not trying to talk you out if the Ultech if you have your mind set on it, but I would suggest that you insure it can be serviced before you spend your money.

BTW, even some very popular high end players are becoming high priced boat anchors when they fail because the transport parts are no longer available. Just make sure you do your homework before buying an old player.....

Enjoy,

TIC

after taking a few minutes to look, the NAD looks pretty nice. It's also rather new compared to the Ultech. I think I'll watch for a NAD. The Oppo's seem to be respectable, but this would not fit my simplicity preference. I always like Denon equipment, is there a Denon model that would be worth buying?

The Shanling CD-S100, CD-S100 MkII, and the entry-level Music Hall players--
CD25, CD25.2--(which are made by Shanling) are all a few degrees above the
competition at the price IMHO and they mostly play HDCD.

Do the NAD players have reliability problems?