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Adding a DAC to a cdp

I enjoy the stories of transport and dac combos that come real close to sound produced by high end turntables. With over 500 cds I am not about to go to vinyl or even another digital format at this point. I currently have a Rega Planet 2000 cdp - decent but I know not the final word in cd players. I understand that my Planet has a pretty decent DAC built in. I also think that one option I might consider is the addition of an outboard dac between my cd player and amplifier turning the Planet into a Transport. Have read wonderful things about Bel Canto, EVS, Audio Note and too many other great dacs and how they can enhance the cd based listening experience and that the technology is really jumping forward. From your expierience what would I hear if I took this approach.
ladavid
eastein
97 posts
 
I'm using a Rega 2k as a transport with an MSB Gold Dac and there is a significant improvement in terms of soundstage, clarity, bass, etc. This is confirmed every now and then when I a/b the Rega vs Rega+MSB. That said there is a disparity in cost between the two and the Rega on its own isn't bad but overall everything is just better with the MSB in the mix.
phild
603 posts
 
Before buying, you might want to think about selling the Rega and buying a better one box player instead of the DAC. The new dac and digital cable could easily cost $500-$1500 for the models you mentioned (used or new). It's worth considering that option.

If I were you I would highly recommend checking into a modded CDP or universal player for the same price you're willing to spend. That would definitely get you the best sound for your money, but not everyone is comfortable with mods.
reubent
6,973 posts
 
LADavid,

"your mileage may vary" depending on the rest of your system. What amp/pre-amp, speakers are you using? If your system is not a high resolution system and if you do not sit down in the sweet spot and critically listen, it may be difficult to appreciate the difference.

That said, I do have significant $ in my digital front end (Resolution Audio Opus21 CD player-$3500 list) and it was worth it for me. My system is highly resolving and I do sit in the sweet spot and do a lot of critical listening.

If I were in the market to perform a DAC experiment today (BTW, I have owned many different external DACs) I would buy a dACK! from Chris Own or the Scott Nixon TubeDac. Both are very reasonable at less than $400 new and both get nearly universal praise from those who have actually heard them. For more information about these two DACs, check out the forums ar www.audiocircle.com and www.audioasylum.com.

I might even buy a dACK! myself, just as an experiment. It is battery powered and comes with a charger. All indications are that is is world class, but at a real world price.

Enjoy,

TIC
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