AudioMeca vs. AudioAero vs. Electrocompaniet

You can read lots of threads and many have said wonderful things about the EMC-1, Aero Capitol, Accuphase, and Mephisto. I would also place the BAT VK5 SE and Arye in this arena. If you are like me and price is a definate factor, it is my opinion that the EMC-1 is a quality player for the money (much less than the other cdps that are mentioned in the same breath). The EMC-1 has been around for awhile and is generally liked by many.

Just to let you know that I attended CES 2002 and saw new cdps that will be introduced by Gamut and Arye for under $3K retail. These are both 24/192.

I forgot to mention that I bought some pucks and pods from Audiolabhawaii.com that worked wonderfully under my EMC-1 cdp. These pucks and pods are inexpensive isolation devices that are better than other isolation devices that I have used (much superior than Black Diamond Racing Cones). I believe these devices will work well under most cdps, pre-amps, and amps.

This may help you in your search for the ultimate digital experience. The Audio Aero and the EMC 1 with 24/192 upgrade are more like each other than they are like the Mephisto 2.

I personally like the Mephisto 2 and use one in my own personal system. But 8 out of 10 times when we do an A/b in the store the customer purchases the EMC 1.

Granted there is a price difference but not as large as there use to be.

The EMC 1 has spectacular dynamics, pace and unbelieveable soundstage. The Mephisto 2 is very delicate with lots of finesse and seductiveness. I personally love the sound of the Mephisto 2 as previously mentioned but you have to be careful what you mate the Mephisto with more so than the EMC 1. Also personal preference is always critical but especially when you get to players this good.

I believe what has made the EMC 1 such a hit is that it even at $5000 is a bargain. The new Audio Aero will be $8800 and I am waiting with bated breath to see if the price jump improves the performance and aesthetics to justify such a price.

The big advantages of the EMC 1 is that it is built like a tank weighs 50 pounds. The bottom end is the best of any player. Dealers can never get enough of them we are lucky to get 2 every 6 weeks - - supply and demand - - And although not gorgeous like the Mephisto 2 it does have a classy appearance. The player is also very reliable.

A S O S you've hit on something here. RELIABLITITY My friends $3K CDP broke. Was NEW!! My $600 CDP broke as well. Was NEW!! I'm sure the AA and AM are reliable units but if the Electro unit qualifies for the additional word VERY then that answers my CDP quest.

...after I heard the Keops, I sold my Meridian 506.20 CDP and I bought the Audiomeca...very analog-like sound!...good bass extension and excellent highs...plus the looks!...my wife loved it!...i don't think you can go wrong with any of the three, but my vote goes to the Keops...good luck!