CD player for Mcintosh/Krell int amp


I currently use two different int amps for listening to music.......Krell KAV 400xi and also a Mcintosh MA6300.

I like both of them and they are not going anywhere...
however I am looking for a cd player.

*XLR outputs
*$2000-$3000 new or used
*detailed for redbook with good bass
*SACD is a bonus....do not have to have it
*Tube player would work well with either

I currently have a Mcintosh MCD 201 which I really like
for SACD......I have a couple SACD'S. But I think I can do
better with redbook..which is 98% what I listen to.
I have had the Rega's and MF's. I really liked the A5 from MF.....do not understand why they do NOT use balanced outputs.

Really looking at an AYRE(ax7e) or ESOTERIC(SA10) or used ACCUPHASE.

I am really not into the modded $800 cd player for $2000.

AM I UPGRADING?
ANY SUGGESTIONS?
klaudio
Hello Klaudio,

It's an interesting hobby but don't take it too seriously, you'll find yourself searching for a truth that doesn't exist. Remember it's all about you. The Krell is a love hate relationship for most. Some hate (many haven't listened) and some love (many haven't listened). Trust your ears. There is a lot of marketing in this game. Krell mentions class "A" without the addition of biasing and Musical Fidelity suggests their amplifiers can handle peak currents at 75amp. Both are laughable and often meaningless statistics, both are in the business of selling and marketing general ideas. Each are successful and it happens in all consumer products. And most seem to forget these companies are in the business of selling electronics and not art.

I would recommend perhaps keeping your MAC and buying an external DAC. There are many more options and perhaps a cheaper alternative. If you are set too a one box solution then I would recommend an Ayon CD-1. For several years now I've tried (through casual listening on other systems) to find a digital product that beat my older Meitner gear and I think I have. The Ayon is a real gem. It has the same sonic analog virtues as my Meitner stuff but with much more detail. I haven't heard a better digital playback system. At least not in a home setup. I also believe the Ayon uses XLR outputs (I listened single ended) which would ease any concerns when connected to the Krell.
I am having more fun now with audio than ever and
I agree that you shouldn't kill yourself to
find a sound that is utopia for all......you will not.

I like this Krell int amp. I like my little MAC int amp.
Ten years ago they would have been here for two months and on to the next newest, coolest, highly reviewed component.

I like the Ayon idea.....may be a little out of my budget.
I think $3000 may be tops.....if the stock market gets better.......just kidding.

Very good comments and regarded advice.
"Krell cast is a trick pony for installers..lossless but not very musical sounding."

You win the prize to date for greatest Krell bash statement I've heard in a long time.

Obviously you have no real or long term experience with this equipment, either that or you are severely misinformed as to the definition of "musicality."
No real or long term experience......cut me a break.
This is not a Jolida thread.
Stevecham, I have owned the following krell gear:

FPB600
FPB300
FPB400Cx
FPB350MCx's
KCT(2)
Evo202, 402 and 505
SACD Std
400xi

It is you who are mistaken my friend. That said, I still respect Krell alot and would prefer their gear over most others. My problem with krell is that they have moved in other directions since concentrating on 2ch/purist audio. The parts quality is way down, european standards have driven away the class A design from their Evo amps and cast does not serve the music...it strips it of vitality and makes it sound very clean, neat and tidy. The only improvement noteworthy was from my 505 to the 202 preamp...the increased dyanmic range was nice.