Resolving CD Transports Crowd Sourcing


Hi everyone! A couple of years ago I purchased my endgame CD transport- a Pro-Ject CD Box RS2T. Loved almost everything about the unit--highly resolving presentation, dead quiet background, balanced placement of instruments in a believable 3 dimensional soundstage, and  the synergy it had with my components. In fact I loved the transport so much I had two of them because Pro-Ject quality control and customer service is the pits. After almost a year of hassles, I'm swearing of Pro-Ject.

I'm in the market for a replacement CD transport that has the same qualities of the Pro-Ject minus the quality issues and customer service.

PS Audio, Jay's Audio, CEC, Audio Research (which are CD/DAC units) come up in my search. What are your thoughts? With all the bells and whistles the Pro-Ject was around $3300, so that gives you an idea of my budget, though I could go higher.

Thanks in advance!

wharfy

Wharfy/David: Thanks for the return post. I am so lucky (so far) with my 3rd (hopefully a winner) RS2T.  I also invested through LT Audio a LPS and the DAC combo sounds GREAT.

In my secondary system, I use a DAC 3B Benchmark, and an Audio lab 6000CDT. Just added a ANTI CABLE Level 3 power cable to the DAC, big improvement, I was very surprised as I wasn't expecting much. I really like my DAC 3B, but was wondering what a step up the ladder might offer. Similar experiment in main room with Meitner and RS2T reveled quite a step forward. If I was to consider (which i AM) another Transport it may be the Jays audio CDT2 ( not sure the proper designation) but the unit that sells US for about 2.5k. Maybe even consider buying an extra laser unit??  On the DAC side looking at an upgrade (hopefully) maybe a used Merison DAC1 or T+A 200 DAC, Abbas 3.2 se DAC? Just tossing these thoughts around, looking for others inputs. Currently waiting for delivery (much anticipated) another couple of months a NEW pair of Tekton MOAB"S with BE tweeter for main listening area.  Money very tight after recent purchase, more research than anything else, unless a GREAT deal jumped out. Thanks again, Robert TN

@facten 

I have no skin in this, but based upon reading posts over the last year or so the QC issue(s) has been a known for some time . It would seem that Project would have long since addressed its production and overall QC especially given its price point

I concur 100%. This should have been recognized and corrected earlier. I suppose better late than never. I have posted often on these forms as a very happy and impressed owner of the RS2T. Every one sold should perform splendidly as mine has, rather than hit and miss outcomes. Pro-Ject must ensure that the transport reliability equals its brilliant sound quality.

Charles

@facten 

@charles1dad 

Agreed with your quality issue assessments! I have to say as I'm doing research the CD Box still comes out on top wrt sound quality. I've actually wondered if I would be crazy trying to get another one. I've reached out to Pro-Ject North America to get a better idea if it's worth a third go-around.

David

@robshaw -

Many people think Jay's MK2-III transport sounds fantastic. I've done quite a bit of research and have considered getting one. I think the thing that makes me hesitate is the no returns policy. Charles1dad has an Abbas 3.2 se DAC and is very satisfied.

David

@wharfy

David,

The 3rd time was the charm for Rob as he mentioned earlier. I’d only consider it if there’s a clear snd definitive return policy. It would be wonderful if you can finally enjoy the RS2T trouble free as other very happy owners are. Particularly in your case as you well know its sonic capabilities. What ever you decide I wish you the best.

Charles