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High End CDP's that play CD-R & CD-RW's?

I'm in the market for a new (to me, but probably used) CD player in the $2K range (give or take) that will also play CD's that are made on a CD recorder such as a Marantz, HHB, Tascam, etc. I'm very interested in a Meridian 508.24, but also would consider BAT, ARC, Cary 303-200, possibly the Electrocompanient, or Muse etc.

Any advice would be appreciated!
steveaudio
kthomas
911 posts
 
There are definitely players that can't play CDR / CDRW based on the transport in them. As Buckingham points out, there are also instances where some will play, some won't. I have used a Sony DVD player as a transport for quite some time and regularly play CDRs on it - never a problem.

The Sony XA777ES suggestion above is certainly a good one for all the reasons listed. You should be able to get one brand new for about your target price (try www.oade.com). The latest rev. of the Muse Model 9 can play those formats as well as MP3. It's a great sounding player and doubles as a DVD player if that's of interest. It doesn't do SACD which, if that appeals to you, probably makes the Sony a better choice. The Muse is also more expensive - for a used Model 9 Signature, you're looking at $2500-2800. Money well spent in my opinion, but more than you're looking to spend possibly. -Kirk

sc53
720 posts
 
I have a Sony DVD player that won't play CDRs at all, even Sony media. My Electrocompaniet EMC-1 and Marantz SA-1 play all CDRs, no matter the brand of blank disk. An older Marantz 67SE also plays CDRs. You need to try a recorded CDR on the machine you're thinking of buying, esp. if it's a Sony.
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,375 posts
 
I have had no problem playing all diffrent types of CDRs on either a Wadia 860x or a Meridian 506.24.
ericbee
42 posts
 
I have the electrocompaniet and there are CDR discs it will not play. In fact, most CD-R's give it a problem. I have found that by using a CD-R that is burned at 2x or 4x, you will have fewer problems. The EMC-1 can and does play CD-R's.
dopogue
1,773 posts
 
Count this as another vote for the Sony XA777ES, really a great-sounding CD player that also plays CDRs and CD-RWs. Consider the SACD capability a bonus. BTW, I've tried at least l0 brands of CDRs and never had a problem with either the Sony or a predecessor Pioneer DV 4l4 (modded). Even the el-cheapos you could see through, Just lucky I guess.
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