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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
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
psacanli OP
535 posts
 
Spectral does not make a universal player-therefore Spectral is not on my radar.
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
IMHO, based on limited searching and listening to alternatives, there are several CD/SACD players that will likely top your Spectral, but no universal player. However, you can buy the Playback Designs MPS-5 and an Oppo or Pioneer DV-58AV to use as a transport through the PD's DAC and then you'll have it all. (In fact, that's what I've done). If you don't already own DVD-As, then I'd recommend against a universal for two-channel and just stick with CD/SACD.

Dave
psacanli OP
535 posts
 
So Dave, could you name the 'several' for me? Thanks
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
I owned the Linn Unidisk 1.1 and thought it was very good but not quite as detailed as I needed for the rest of my system. I ended up with an Esoteric DV-50 and am very happy with it.

I do not think it was nearly as well built as the Esoteric and did suffer from an occasional glitch.

If you like the Esoteric sound I'd stick with them.
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