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Advice re: Entry level CD Player

I've been putting together my first audio system, and could use some advice. Right now, I have a NAD C325BEE Integrated Amp and Mirage OMD-15's. I'd like a CD Player, and am thinking about getting a NAD under the theory it may match up well with the amp. My budget is about $500, and I don't mind going used. I've noticed a new NAD C545BEE, and also a used Creek Evo....

My listening is eclectic, but not heavy rock or rap. In addition to CDs, I listen to my computer based music via an "iDevice" thru a HRT iStreamer. The plan is eventually to upgrade my computer music to FLAC or AIFF files and get a decent DAC, (which may also service this soon-to-be acquired CD player.

A newb has to start somewhere!!
backwardsman
shoff
133 posts
 
I think used is the way to go to optimize your cost/performance ratio. Probably lots to choose from in your price range. Although these are older models, here are three that I can highly recommend: (1) Anthem CD-1 ($1700 MSRP, tubed output stage, decodes HDCD discs, can function as 6 disc changer); (2) California Audio Lab CL-15, CL-10 or Icon MK II (CL 15 and 10 MSRP around $1500, well built, Decodes HDCD); (3) Rega Appolo (MSRP $1000, great sound for the money, well made)
dpgdave's avatar
dpgdave
16 posts
 
My first player was a Rega Planet 2000. It took me a couple upgrades before I got back to that level of enjoyment.
richardfinegold
196 posts
 
Do you need SACD? At $500 you should at least be able to get a player that adds that. Or perhaps a Universal player such as one of the cheaper Oppos, which will also let you play Blu Rays, SACD, and DVD-A
pdn
438 posts
 
Go with the NAD unit. I have an NAD unversal player and it is stupendous. If you can pick up a preowned NAD 565BEE for $500.00, go for it. This is their top of the line of their standard issue CD players not the reference units.
xxqq250
43 posts
 
I would try to find a used Rotel 1072. I had one for a few years. It's the best price to sound quality player I have come across. I replaced it with an Arcam 33 that I good deal on. The Arcam is better but if I had to pay full price, I would have kept the Rotel.
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