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Proac+Cary and Accuphase or Esoteric CD

I intend to buy Cary 211AE Power amp with Cary SLP-05 Pre (second hand).
I already have Proac Response 2.5 loudspeakers.
What would you think of a digital front end to use with this system? Accuphase DP-500 or Esoteric X-03SE.
Since the accuphase is a "WARM" sounding cd player would it be too much of a good thing since this system is already on a warm side.
In addition what cables should have a high synergy with the above system.
Thanks in advance for any help.
oferk
hack
185 posts
 
Why not buy a Cary CDP? You can select tubed or solid state output, and upsample. The best of all worlds. I love my Cary!
jaiello
50 posts
 
I'd buy a Cary CDP. The equipment is obviously voiced together and the synergy will be amazing. BTW, I have the same amps and pre and I use the new Cary 306 SACD player with it but I can tell you that the older 306/200 would also sound great.
nolitan
865 posts
 
both the accuphase dp500 and x-03 are awesome players.
X-03 is detailed, with tight extended bass.
DP500 wins in the midrange department and the orderliness of the sound.It is warm but not overly warm to the point that details disappear. it has enough details not to be missed out.
If you can audition both , it would be awesome as you would have a hard time picking which of the two you would buy.
amfibius
282 posts
 
Oferk, I have the SLP-05 and CAD-211. In my previous system I ran these with the ProAc D38. I can tell you right now that this is a beautiful combination and is sure to make you very happy.

I am using a Cary CD-306 SACD player, which IMO is a very good match in this system. I have heard Accuphase - while this is very good, I do not think its particular combination of qualities would suit your system very well. The SLP-05 and CAD-211AE are already midrange heavy, and the Accuphase would give you too much midrange warmth. Even with the Cary I had to spend a lot of time rolling tubes to get the sound I wanted.

Of the two CDP's you have nominated, I would probably lean towards the Esoteric. But really you should consider the Cary - it is very good!
oferk OP
2 posts
 
Amfibius,
Thank you for the information. I consider of buying the Accuphase or the Esoteric, besides their sonic attributes, because that both companies design and make the CD transport themselves. I have seen a few complaints of users of Cary CD players about the reliability of the Cary CDP’s (not sure that it was about the 306 also). Anyhow I will check that CD player as well.
Could I ask you what cables did you use in your previous system with the Proac D38? And if I may ask why did you sell the Proac and bought a different one.
Thanks.
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