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Help on premium cd player

I've been playing around with separates (upsamplers, dacs, transports) seeking like many something that sounds right (like vinyl?). Lately been trying to find a good transport to work with my, largely used, collection of parts. Have now stepped back and realized that I'm already out $3-4,000 and still don't have what I'm looking for, and tired of the search. I want to listen to music. So switching tactics and looking for a really good player in the $3-5,000 range {used), then sell off my "inventory", rationalize cables and rack space and just enjoy (90% classical, jazz and vocals). My candidates, based on reviews and hours reading threads here and AudioAsylum, are

Accuphase dp 65x or 75
Audio Aero Capitole 24/92
Audiomecca Mephisto II
Electrocompaniet EMC-1 Mk2 24/92
Wadia 860x

As an old banker I get a warm feeling if the manufacturer isn't likely to disappear overnight. To those who suggest that I first audition and trust my ears, I agree 100% in theory, but it's not possible where I live.

Comments/recommendations from those who have owned more than one product or were otherwise able to directly compare two or more especially valued.

Oh, my equipment includes tube and transitor pres and amps so I'm flexible, not a zealot for either philosophy!

Many thanks in advance for your contribution. And apologies if this post is too long, just try to preclude questions rather than answers.
grandpad
tireguy
1,964 posts
 
I have an Accuphase digital pre/DAC DC-300-which uses the same DAC as what's in the DP-75v, it sounds incredible. I am going to a friends house to check out his Audio Aero Capitole, which is suppose to be amazing as well, in fact if I could go back I think I would consider the audio aero unit running direct. I will make that opinion this evening, should be interesting. The electro unit is suppose to be super as well, as is the audiomecca, I don't hear anything good about the Wadia gear, and most that have it are always thinking about selling it. Of course some folks here use the wadia stuff and like it, but I question what they have had to compare it to, try to listen to as many as you can and pay attention to the DP-75v(far superior to the DP-65v, many feel the DP-55v is a better performer then the DP-65v) and the audio aero they would be the 2 I would most want to own on your list. Happy hunting
Tim
fatparrot
1,314 posts
 
I'm using (and love) an Accuphase DP-75. It comes REALLY close to analog. However, since you listen to a lot of classical, I question whether ANY regular redbook CD can get strings right! Sorry, EVERY high end CD player or transport/DAC combo falls short on the "strings" when compared to an analog rig that costs even 50% of these premium CD players. But if you're committed to the regular CD format, I would HIGHLY recommend the DP 75. Happy Tunes!
mikelavigne
2,175 posts
 
I know i'm doubleing your budget, but if you really want to simplify your life and enjoy "music" from your cds, consider a used Linn CD-12. No, i have not heard all the current "upsampling" cdps but those i have heard fall short of the clarity and naturalness of the CD-12. so far, in my experience, the Linn comes closest to my Marantz SA-1 on sacds. the edgyness of the 16/44 format is gone with this player without the colorations you will find in less refined solutions.
tok20000's avatar
tok20000
608 posts
 
You need to add the Cary 306/200 to your list of CD players to review. Cary is a company that has been around forever. They only recently have been making CD players, but they hit some home runs with their first CDPs.

The 306/200 is one of the best one box CDPs in the world right now. Period. I personally think it is a more natural sound than the EMC-1 mk2 (after comparing both in my system).

Anyway, this and $2 will get you a $2 coffee at Starbucks.

Peace.

Keith
gboren
143 posts
 
I agree with Mikelavigne. But you can get almost that good by getting the Linn Ikemi (list = $3600). IMHO, the Ikemi sounds better than any other player or transport/dac combo out there (except for the Sondek CD12).
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