BEST CD TRANSPORT

@2psyop 

I have the CDT2 MK2 paired with the Pontas II 12th Anniversary DAC. So far it's the best digital playback I have had. On par with Bluesound Node output to the Pontus II

The Bluesound Node is on equal footing with your Jay’s Audio CD transport?

Charles

Yes. Actually sounds better sometimes with the Denafrips DAC. I know there are a great many streamers out there that will out perform the Node. No doubt. But they also have much bigger price tags. I wanted to see how much better the Node could sound by swapping a better power supply and adding a very good DAC. I was very surprised. The Node does not get the respect it deserves IMO.

This is a very good thread. Lots of very good information on CD transports, without any of the usual snarky (a $16 eBay DVD player is just as good) comments from certain forum participants.

If someone is interested on a CD transport (digital output only), but, with additional added functionality, I would recommend the T+A MP 200. It is a streamer (and Roon Ready certified endpoint), and a radio (FM, HD, and more).

These questions get so boring and routine. But okay, from what I have actually heard and spent any time with, Esoteric P1X. Also heard it with the Rubidium Clock and that made improvements but is not made anymore. But Esoteric has an all new in house designed/ built PIX Clock that I have not heard, but will assume is an improvement. I don’t know exact prices but at these price levels improvements don’t come cheap and you have to decide value here. Personally, if I had the disposable cash I probably would buy it. Keep in mind also the technology in the P!X Clock was filtering down into all there SACD players b-4 the P!X was available. I think.  Not to mention I can't wait to hear the new turntable.  I have listened to the Limited edition Naim and for the price; table, tonearm, cartridge, preamp, and dual power supply is I guess a sort of bargain in this sector of the market.

I think equipment should be rated according to price ranges.  For those that cannot/will not spend top money on something, it could be most helpful to rate items according to price ranges — bang for bucks — rather than simply “best I ever heard”.