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Digital to Analog-Converter needed?

I recently purchased an Aragon 8008BB amplifier and will be pairing it with my B&W 802 series 80 speakers. I have an Audible Illusions 2D preamp but I need a new CD player.
Because my equipment is analog I am wondering how to best proceed with the purchase of a CD player. Do I consider using a D2A converter such as an old Aragon D2A2 and match it up with any cd player (with a digital output)? Another consideration would be to use a CD player with a good analog output. Any Suggestions?
hififanatic
joey54
435 posts
 
One reason that you might want a standalone DAC is for use with a computer based digital playback system. Many DAC's have multiple inputs which would allow the use of a CD transport and/or some other device like a Squeezebox or your PC while gaining the sound quality of a good DAC. Just my take on this and YMMV.
horseface's avatar
horseface
222 posts
 
Good point Joey54,

I am running a CD transport, computer and DVD-A/SACD source all off a single DAC that I am very pleased with. I get a very consistent two channel sound. The more I dive into the computer side the more I am using it exclusively as my music source. This setup works well for me and I see more and more DAC’s (Digital to Analog Converters) with USB inputs that tie directly to your PC or Mac. The downside is it adds more cables and can get pricey. I have noticed no degridation in sound by separating the DAC from the CD transport.
johnss
616 posts
 
HiFi,
I would suggest you look at a decent DVD Player with digital out (Pioneer, Denon, etc) and buy a rosetta 200 for the conversion to analog.
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