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What am I doing wrong? Can't find right CD player.

Hope you all can help me out. Here's my system: Rotel 200 watts/channel stereo amp, McIntosh preamp, McIntosh LS350 speakers. Now the problem. Up until a few weeks ago was using a MCD 7008 McIntosh CD player. Typical Mac warm sounding easy on ears but not much clear definition in high end. So I went out and bought a Sony 555ES. Well high ends are sharp as is mid range but bass is lacking. Also, I suspect listener fatgue will be a problem with this unit. Isn't there a 5 disc CD player that is a happy medium between these 2 units? I am really frustrated. Any suggestions? ps - CD player budget is $1500 max. Thanks
warren2828
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drubin
3,274 posts
 
Give the Sony a little more time to break in, if you haven't already. Put it on repeat continuously for a while (2-3 weeks). That's the first thing. If you still are not getting the bass you want, try some aftermarket power cords. Don't give up on the Sony too quickly.
barrelchief
294 posts
 
California Audio Labs CL-10...very nice sounding piece
budrew
467 posts
 
You could add a seperate DAC to a disc changer and that might help (if it has a digital out). Multi disc players are intended more for convenience than audiophile sound.
garfish
1,840 posts
 
I agree with Barrelchief on the CAL Audio CL-10 if you want a "one box" player, and Budrew when a CD changer is used only as a transport. I used a Sony CA9ES 5CD carosel player with an Adcom 600/700 DAC for several years and it was a very enjoyable combination.

Also, it seems apparent that you're "used to" the softer and relaxed sound of the McIntosh gear-- not a bad thing, but it sounds like you'd like a little more dynamic music? Good Luck. Craig
jwaugh
103 posts
 
Another vote for CAL in general but agree with drubin that you really should finish burn-in and tweak the sony if you like what it IS doing so far. For me, power cable switches helped the bass on my player (ML390S) - I'll bet the Sony will strike a better balance with your system afterward too. Regardless, you can (hopefully) always use the power cord on your next one...

Good luck
-j
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