CEC CD Transports on eBay: Are they fake?

@charles1dad Thanks for sharing! You might recall a post from me (to which you actually replied) a few weeks back about my defective RS2T, which had to be returned. The issue was mechanical noise. I did get to listen to it briefly (powered by an LTA external power supply) and I thought it was (as I noted) ridiculously transparent, airy, with incredible imaging and a deep, layered but soundstage, but also (perhaps as a result of all this) a bit fatiguing. It really wasn’t a fair listen because it was just so short and hurried as the unit was due to be returned the next day. Reflecting on my quick listen I thought that -- especially as a result of the imaging creating such an audible separation between instruments on the soundstage -- it might end up effectively "analyzing" music into its constituent parts thus dis-integrating it all to the extent of  reduced musicality. I guess you don’t agree? (BTW, I didn’t have the sense that the RS2T was "clinical", however. It was still musical but perhaps the separation I would describe as a bit distracting from the overall piece/song.)

Yes, the La Diva M2 is the one I’m considering. I was then thinking that perhaps a CEC transport might be a nice in-between position. Curious if you’ve ever heard a CEC transport to compare it to your RS2T? Apparently, CEC transports (which I have never personally heard) are known for being quite organic-sounding.

@charles1dad BTW, I have a Mola Mola Tambaqui DAC -- so perhaps that needs to be considered, too. I don't think the Tambaqui is analytical, but it is highly resolving.

@ajays

A friend had the CEC TL2 for some years and I was very familiar with it. No direct comparison with my RS2T. Upper level CEC transports provide high quality sound presentation. The RS2T is exceptionally resolved and yet very natural sounding.

The particular DAC utilized imparts on the overall sound unquestionably. Your Mola Mola DAC and my Abbas Esoteric 3,2SE are quite different so that’s an additional factor in play regarding assessment.

Charles

Thanks, @charles1dad! I will familiarize myself with the Abbas and see if any inference can be made (difficult, of course). Thanks again!

@ajays

I have not heard the Tambaqui but I recognize that it is highly admired and praised. I believe that you’d be happy pairing it with any of the high quality upper tier transports under your consideration.

Charles