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Linn Ikemi CD Player vs. Other Lower Cost Options

I am considering replacing my Meridian 508.20 CD player with another unit. The 508.20 CD player is connected to a Jeff Rowland Concentra integrated amplifier and ProAc 2.5 Speakers. I heard the Meridian 588 vs. the Ikemi and I liked the Linn (much better). I heard the Wadia 301 and found it too bright (possible setup problem). I liked the Rega Jupiter also but when compared to the Ikemi, the Linn was the winner (for my ears). The Ayre CX7 is an option that I need to listen to. Since the Linn Ikemi is expensive, does anyone have a recommendation for a similar high quality CD player than the Linn Ikemi but at a lower cost (like under $2,000)? For the cost and value, is the better option to upgrade my 508.20 to 508.24? Comments and suggestions are requested.
hgeifman
thsalmon
348 posts
 
I've had an Ikemi, and I don't think there's any one box player less or equally expensive that will better it. I did find that the Chord DAC64 was a considerable improvement over the Ikemi, but you will have to have some sort of transport.
gboren
143 posts
 
When I auditioned CDP's 2 years ago, I listened to seven or eight. Although I ended up getting a great deal on the Ikemi, I almost went for the the Arcam FMJ CD23. It was, to my ears, a very close competitor to the Ikemi. If I hadn't got the great deal on the Ikemi, I'm sure I would have been very happy with the FMJ (about $2000 retail?)
gregm
3,405 posts
 
Thsalmon offers good advice and Gboren offers a good tip, IMO. Later (i.e. 2002) models are slightly better than the originals. Cheers
dglinn
15 posts
 
I still own a ikemi,and love it,I also owned a genki,which is not at the level of the ikemi.I do not know if you have listend to a genki, but for the price used around 1000.00 it might be worth a listen. Hope this might help.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
I have a Shanling CD-T100 with NOS WE 396 tubes in the analog output section. US$ 1995 on AudiogoN, NOS tubes extra. I posted a review here.

Before buying the Shanling I auditioned the Ikemi and I loved it--the Ikemi, that is. But I bought a Shanling because it was a lot less and came so very close to what I wanted, perhaps even outdoing the Ikemi in one or two characteristics.

But the two players don't sound the same at all. If I remember correctly the Ikemi is more laid back than the Shanling. The Shanling does timbres and harmonies beautifully. Both players have a very coherent sound. I'd give the Shanling a listen, remembering that it needs 200 to 300 hours to sound its best.
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