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Best older universal for CD playback??

I am wondering if anyone has compared the universal players below for CD playback sound and what were your observations. I am trying to stick with one machine verses one for DVD and one for CD but that can be tough I cannot afford the newer units and to me many are hyper detailed and not what I am looking for. I have heard the DVD 7001 and DVD 3800 and thought the Denon was warmer. Probably the ALPHA processing. I had that on my Denon 1650AR I had for 9 years and it did make it more musical and analog. Thanks
Marantz DV 7001,DV 9500,DV 9600
Denon DVD 3800,DVD 3910,DVD 3800BD,DVD 2930ci
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onestaudio's avatar
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onestaudio
143 posts
 
Sony DV 9000 ES is outstanding, and it plays SACD 2 channel. I have this machine in my bedroom system and don't believe you could find a better player in the second hand market that fits your requirements. Sony put this player together too, it weighs 30 pounds! I had the 3910 too, and it is a good machine but not in the league of the Sony for 2 channel playback, but the 3910 plays multi-channel SACD and CD-R. Good luck.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"05-18-15: Colekat
Sony DV 9000 ES is outstanding, and it plays SACD 2 channel."

That's the same one I recommended in an earlier thread. I haven't seen one come up for sale in a while, but they were going for about $400. One of the reasons that player is a nice option is that there are a few reputable companies that mod them. Mine is stock because I have a really good CD player, but if I didn't have it I would probably send the Sony out and have it done.
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jafant
19,403 posts
 
Besides ModWright, which other operation(s) are modding CD/DVD players in 2015?

Not too long ago, there were several mod operations, sadly, most have closed shop (no pun). Keep me posted & Happy Listening!
zd542
5,339 posts
 
VSE was a popular choice for the 9000ES. I don't know if they are still in business.
mikirob
955 posts
 
Another vote for the Sony S9000ES. It does everything well. It Has most of the inputs/outputs. It is a heavy, rugged cd/sacd/dvd player well worth your consideration. I have one in my office system connected to an Eastern Electric Minimax DAC, superb.
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