Theta Delta Basic II Transport Opinions.

Art, I use a common Sony 200 disc CD mega changer's optical output with my Tri-Vista 21 DAC and am happy with it. I may borrow a transport from the local Audio Salon and see how it works. Enjoy your '21!

That would be Theta "Data", not "Delta", which is a CAL model name. I haven't heard one in too long to comment directly, but I do own a Theta Pearl transport and it's definitely better for driving an external DAC than any of the mid-fi players I've tried as transports.

Can't comment on how it will interact with the Tri-Vista but the TBDII transport is an excellent unit for the money. Good bass, not too forward, throws a wide soundstage and overall performance is excellent, especially with Theta DAC's. Had a few transports, sold or traded them all - but still I keep the Theta Data Basic II on hand. One thing... these units are prone to mechanical glitches, i.e. drawer function and laser alignment (it's what I hear and have experienced). If the whole transport mechanism fails, it could be a problem since these mechanisms (Philips) are no longer in production. But for around $500.00 used, it's still, IMO, a good bargain if you can get more than a few years out a used one.

I just purchased the Tri-Vista 21 this afternoon, and I'm using the original Theta Data Basic to drive it. It sounds fantastic! I've had the Theta for eight years and have never considered replacing it.

I also run the Tri-Vista DAC. I thought it sounded great with the Arcam FMJ 23 used as a transport. Then I tried out a nice used Theta Data Basic, the first model I believe, and was quite surprised at the improvement. Considerably more airspace around all voices and instruments, and greatly enriched bass, but with nice detail. By this time, I'd committed too much to new amp and speakers to take advantage of a real bargain.
Unless it quits the next day, hard to see how you can go wrong at prices around $500 USd.