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What cd player or cd transport/dac is next for me?

I have a ML 335, ML 380S, Dunlavy SCIV's, Harmonic Tech Magic Ones biwired and Stealth Gold interconnects currently with Sony SCD-1. I had a Resolution Audio CD55 for about a year. I found that the redbook play of the Sony and CD55 were comparable with different strengths, but similar enough that I characterize them as of the same class/level.

I wish to make a significant shift in cd play. First, is it necessary in your opinion to go to the top of the heap to get dramatic improvements? Is used equipment available in your opinion that will yield those results at used prices?

I have heard the ML 39, EMC-1 ML 30.5 & 31.6 in similar systems to mine. Are the new generation of mid-level cd units dramatically improved over the prior generation? (Ml 39/ML 39S, EMC-1 upgrade)

I look forward to useful ideas for improvement. All other thoughts I suspect will be appreciated also!

Bill E.
lakefrontroad
danielk141
489 posts
 
I have the Sony XA7ES CD player. I know, it's old & discontinued, but I waited & waited for Sony to make an SACD
player with a variable out - it never happened...
Why don't you check out the new Mark Levinson 390s CD player & see how much better it is than the Model 39.
Your system is definitely of high enough caliber to warrant an audition with & without your pre-amp.
I really want a truly balanced 2 channel cd player to go with my Rowland Model 2 amp. I just wish the Levinson wasn't so expensive.
The Theta Miles was a good concept, until Theta kind of forgot about it.....

Good Luck & post your results!
subaruguru
1,375 posts
 
I like my EMC-1 MKII enough to have just bought two extra 24/192k DAC upgrade kits for any EMC-1 owner wanting to upgrade on their own (got 'em for $600).
Note that ann EMC-1 MkI is now on A'gon auction under $2200.
So for $2800 total you'd have an incredibly nice player.
My MkII has stupendous bass extension, control and dynamics, utterly analogue-like full midrange, and yet a clear, ultradetailed treble with NO hash or edginess. Remarkable!
I'm using Discovery Essence XLR, which I prefer over previously used Pro-Silways and Red Dawn in my system.
Good luck with your choice.
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
I really like the Accuphase CD players. I'm using an older DP-75. I feel that this unit has the most "analog" sound of any Redbook player that I have heard!
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