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Looking for hi value CD/SACD player...

I think my modified Denon 2910, which has served me well, is dying. I would greatly appreciate suggestions on a replacement in the $1000-$1500 range. Obviously, spending less is OK too but new rather than used. I'd prefer a dedicated CD/SACD player exclusively for 2 channel audio listening. Don't need Blue Ray or multichannel capability. 2 players that I'm considering are the Oppo BDP 95 and Sony's SCD XA5400SE. The Oppo gets high marks on audio but carries video baggage I don't really need. The Sony seems designed for audio but is a bit older than the Oppo. Has anyone compared these? What were your findings? Both have been out for several years now. Is there something newer to consider in this price range? Thanks in advance.
128x128ghosthouse
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse OP
4,306 posts
 
Thanks to everyone for the suggestions.
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
Another +1 for the Marantz SA8004. I'm a vinyl junkie, yet in a store demo I heard the SA8004 make a redbook CD I was very familiar with sound stunningly real, lush, rich, and musical. To be able to tap other digital sources into that excellent DAC is a compelling additional benefit.
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
i owned the marantz sa 11 mark 2. i'm not sure i have the model number correct, but it was the second most expensive sacd, about two years ago. i am assuming it is more expensive than the 8004.

point is, i have never heard a solid state sacd player sound warm and lush. perhaps it is the way in which the terms are defined, but i think tubes are required to attain a rich and lush sound. beware of solid state.

i sold my marantz player and vowed never to buy another.

i'd suggest that you find a consonance 2.2 that works, if you can.
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
Nothing wrong with an NAD like this one.

http://app.audiogon.com/listings/cd-sacd-players-nad-master-series-m5-cd-sacd-player-with-manufacturer-s-warranty-1-2-price-2012-10-05-digital-01060

Bill
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse OP
4,306 posts
 
Again - thanks all for your thoughts and time. Rumors of the Denon's demise were premature. I'd made some boneheaded/wrong connections at the preamp. Now that things are corrected the need to replace this Upgrade Co. modified CDP is not so pressing. When the time comes, the Marantz (or its then current/affordable interation) will certainly be on the short list. I run Consonance preamp and monoblocks so I'll take a look at Mrtennis' suggestion of the 2.2. Now must report the upgrade bug has shifted to the possibility of replacing a Kab-modified Stanton cartridge with a Goldring. Either 1042 or maybe 2400. Hard to find much on the 2400 whereas reading many good things about the 1042. Thanks again for your time.
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