2. digital
  3. 1012588445

CD Player Modifications. Is it worth the ?

I recently have been discussing modifying / upgrading my CD player, NAD C541. I would cost me around $300. Is it worth it, will it make an substantial difference?
stbhorn
sean
6,231 posts
 
Depends on what is done and the quality of the parts that are used. Simply changing some coupling caps to higher grade pieces and adding increased reserve to the power supply can make a VERY noticeable difference. Not only is the noise floor lowered, bass can become more controlled and you will typically make noticeable gains in midrange liquidity, overall transparency and treble "tone". By the tone of the treble, i'm talking about softer and more detailed highs with less smearing. More "shimmer" on cymbals and not as much "splash", etc...

My suggestion to those interested in doing such things is to start off with a product that you are basically happy with and go from there. Turning a sow's ear into a silk purse can be done, but it typically isn't worth the investment. Sean
>
phil123
54 posts
 
Sean is right. It can make a big difference but I don't think the platform you have is something I would invest a lot of money in. I have seen Audio Note CD2's go for $500 to $600 used and I think you would be way ahead with something like that over upgrading your NAD.
chelillingworth
309 posts
 
Check out the LCAudio products at www.diycable.com
I installed four of the AD825 opamp modules replacing the BB units in my sony 9000es. I also replaced the coupling caps with Black Gates and installed top of the line Cardas RCA's and Bybee Filters purchased from www.modwright.com

These mods have made a huge difference.

I would say theat looking at your system on another thread and depending on your budget I would sink all I could into some nice speakers and then think about modding this player or another unit. Some machines are easier to work with than others. The folks over at DIY should be able to tell you what they have available for your player.

I would highly recommend the Bybee's from www.modwright.com they are so easy to install and make a huge all around improvement.
More to discover