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CD Player for Macintosh / B&W N804

With the help of this forum I decided to get McIntosh MA6500 integrated amplifier for my B&W N804 speakers.

Now I am front of choosing CDP. I know there have been a lot of discussions on CD players and I read them all for the past few days. Still I am not clear, there are many different opinions.

I am looking to spend $1K-1.5K or so, for new or used unit. I'd prefer to have a 5-CDs changer, but there are not that good as I understand. What about if I get a changer and use it as transport and also get a DAC? -- This setup is kinda intimidating for newbie :-)

I am looking at these units, seems they have favorable feedback:
Meridian 507, 508, 588 used
Linn Ikemi used

What do you think abour Linn Classik new?

I'd really appriciate if you share your CDP experience with simular equpiment. I listen mostly classical and rock.

Thanks in advance,
Konstantin
konstantin_agon
aball
2,016 posts
 
Why not a McIntosh player? The MCD205 (6-disc bank) is awesome. Hard to find used though ($2500 new, I think). It/They would look great with your new integrated (congradulations on your fine choice BTW).

Otherwise, check out the Sony SCD 555ES or 333ES. Both are 5 disc carousel. You can look at the 777ES too but it is single disc. I own an 80ES changer that has been flawless in sound and quality for years and it works very well with my McIntoshes. Arthur
tonyp54
130 posts
 
I have an Ikemi with B&W 802 matrix and compared it to the Meridian 588 and some others. In the 2k range (used) I don't think you can do better in either sound or build quality. You'll most likely sacrifice sound quality for the changer if you go that route. I thought the 588 was a little too bright with the B&Ws. The treble is really what kept briging me back to the Ikemi.
konstantin_agon OP
15 posts
 
Aball, thanks for reply. I was thinking about MCD205 but I haven't found any reviews on it. Seems people just do not buy it. My dealer doesn't have it to listen, they use Adcom GCD-750.

Tony, have you heard Linn Genki? I would buy it new.

I start thinking that CD Player is better to buy new.

Thanks guys
hififile
236 posts
 
Dear Konstantin,

I had the same situation. I too have the McIntosh 6500 integrated (great piece by the way). I was looking for a CD player. I purchased A sony 555es SACD and sold it. Good but not superb. Next I bought a used YBA, also good but not quite there though, and sold that (got tired of 2 remotes and it's function.

I bought the McIntosh MVP-841. The sound was better than the previous machines, the remote functions were integrated into 1 controller, I can also play DVD's, and the system is well matched visually and sonically. I never thought the 841 would play CD's like a truly high-end player, and I took a very expensive "chance". It was worth every penny, and I highly recommend it. Hopefully your McIntosh dealer will allow you to take one home for a demo.

Hope this helps & Good Luck
aball
2,016 posts
 
The MVP841 is MUCH MUCH more common than the MCD205. It is not a matter of no one buying the 205 but that DVD/CD is way more popular currently than a 6-disc CD-only music bank. I have never seen a 205 despite going to dealers all over the place. They will forever be uncommon - thus, Hififile's advice may be better than mine. As soon as I can afford it, I will be going with a McIntosh CD to replace my Sony ES too.
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