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"Best" of the "Universal" players ???.

For CD sound primarily.

I want "super" CD sound; but would much prefer the machine be universal.(I don't want to sacrifice much at all in CD sound to the very best CD only players. However I realize my isolation & conditioning technigues will enable my sound to surpass that of the finest CD player(Spectral?) in some other less refined system)
I tend to feel the Esoteric machines are likely 'best' and the "safest" bet for long term reliability or factory support with parts/upgradability.
Are there any other "universal" machines I should consider?
psacanli
psacanli OP
535 posts
 
Thanks Magfan, but I'm not thinking quite that economically.
Ayre, Emm, Esoteric are some of my thoughts for best sound but I'm hoping to hear from some who have experience with the top units in excellent systems. As for Video it's my understanding the Lexicon RT-20 I now use is significantly better than the Oppo based on reviews I've seen.
It "may" well be that I will be keeping the RT-20 and buying a topnotch CD only player.
magfan
1,583 posts
 
Sounds like a plan::
Happy listening.....and viewing.

My situation is that I can NOT afford multiple systems and don't have the space, even if I did.

I wouldn't even presume to give any advice on hi-end CD players. I believe my current system of 840c into PSAudio integrated driving Magnepans is quite enough! I could improve my current system by improving the listening area.
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
If you don't already own DVD-As and your planning on two-channel CD and SACD, then there are many more options that makes CDs sound competitive with SACDs. You've mentioned Esoteric. Playback Designs is another alternative at the high end of the price range and Denon is one of the better choice at a mid-range price. (Spectral as "the finest" CD player. Where'd that "finest CD player" come from?

Dave
psacanli OP
535 posts
 
Dcstep, Spectral as the finest is just a wild guess by a happy Spectral equipment owner who has confidence in Keith Johnson.
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
Oh!? Since you're the OP and you "know" the answer, then why are you asking the question? Is that Spectral owner a friend or yourself?

Dave
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