Audiolab CDT9000 just dropped. Paul Rigby placed in higher standing than the 6000, consistent with the difference in price. I’d personally try that one, although haven’t even heard the 6000CDT:
As per another reader I have an Audiolab 6000 CDT and Denafrips Ares II. The combination is excellent. The Audiolab replaced my Rotel RDD 980 transport and the difference is substantial. I also looked to replace with other CD players including recent models from Rotel, Marantz and Naim, if any of these sounded any better I would have bought them. If you already have a DAC or need a DAC for other sources the Audiolab at the price is outstanding.
+1 for the Audiolab 6000CDT. I have mine hooked up to a Denafrips Pontus II standalone DAC and it sounds awesome. The 6000CDT currently sells for $499 on Amazon and you can maybe pick up a Denafrips Ares II DAC used for $500 - $600. The Pontus II is the next model above the Ares II and sells for about $1800 USD new. Your only other expense would be to buy a quality coax cable to connect the 6000CDT to the Ares II. Buying quality separate components (CD transport + standalone DAC) will more than likely outperform a similarly priced all in one CDP. Having a standalone DAC is also useful for future system expansion such as adding a dedicated streamer or headphone amplifier. I have both of mine connected to the Pontus.
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