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Help with decision...New CDP or add DAC to DVD?

My old 16 bit CDP just doesn't cut the mustard any more. I'd appreciate advise on whether to buy a new CDP versus simply adding a good DAC to my Sony DVP-s300 DVD player via digital coax. The latter would sure simplify things. Budget in either case is around $400. I've read somewhere that DVD laser heads can't really get the most from audio CDs...is that true? The rest of my system is simple; Parasound receiver and Vandersteen 3A speakers.
dwpc
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I am not technical expert, but since DVDs are harder to read than audio CDs, I can't see how a DVD player could do a bad job. Try a MSB Link DAC; right at your budget brand new.
argent
245 posts
 
Even my Sony 9000ES has poor quality CD playback compared to the DVD playback. The spec numbers illustrate this difference. A DAC might help, especially if your DVD player has a good transport mechanism, but not sure what you'll find for $400, especially if you have to buy a digital coax cable. Not trying to dissuade you from the purchase, just wishing you good luck with the hunt. :-)
jbweaver
33 posts
 
I am currently using a Sony DVP-S7700 with an Art DI/O DAC. The DI/O can be had new as low as $200 and is a huge improvement over the DVP's DAC. I have not compared it with the MSB but the sound would be a vast improvement over your current CDP. --Scott
redwoodgarden
150 posts
 
If you are referring to the Proceed model CDP, there is no contest. The Proceed CDP was taken off the market because of a software problem that Madrigal has not been able to fix. I had to send mine back to the factory to have it fixed, but now four months later, I am still having the same problem. Take my advice; stay away from the Proceed CDP.
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