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Has CD playback evolved in the last 5 years?

A recent thread asked if an older, inexpensive player should be repaired or replaced; and that has me asking the question - has cd playback technology evolved to the point where it's now prudent to replace older (say 5 years or more) players because of advancements in technology? I have an older Arcam FMJ 23 that sounds really nice, but I'm wondering if new players or DACs will give me better sonics than my Arcam. (I live in an area where I can't audition equipment very easily)
rockyboy
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I don't think 5 years is a good number to use. Aside from some small improvements, CD players have not seemed to progress much in sound quality using a 5 year time line. If you move out to 10 years, a much better case can be made.
mrvco
52 posts
 
I'd say the major change has been that there are a seemingly endless number of high-quality external DAC's available to meet just about any budget.
edorr
714 posts
 
I can personally attest that conversion of PCM two 2xDSD as is done in the EMM Labs (and Playback Designs I believe), has taken CD playback to a different level (for me anyway). If this level with attainable 5 years ago, and if so at what pricepoint I do not know. Also don't know how othe expensive DACs stack up against this technology.
edorr
714 posts
 
Audiogon acting funny. I did not post this twice.
tmsorosk
1,013 posts
 
I've noticed big sonic improvements in the last 2 to 3 years, so I would have to say there as been a big evolution in the past five. To bad you can't audition some of the latest digital gear it really is getting sonically impressive. If your happy with the sound of your Arcam I would recommend an upgrade in that line.
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