I am using a Jolida JD-100A, and am trying to decide as to whether to have it modified, get another CDP, or go to a transport/DAC. After having recently gone from monoblocks to an integrated amp, I would prefer to maintain the convenience of a single box unit if possible.
What I love about the Jolida: very airy and transparent, non-fatiguing, engaging sound. I'm using NOS Mullard CV4004's, and Michael Wolff carbon cords, and with my SET amp and horns, Diana Krall sounds like she is in the room. On the more complex music (I listen to everything from jazz to heavy rock), it seems to lack low end control. It could have more authority over the separation of the frequencies, as well as better attack. In my non-audiophile speak, I would say that the player could simply 'dig deeper' to grab and round (resolve?) all of the notes.
I've heard a number of players that I loved, among them the Audio Aero Capitole (too expensive for me), and the Prima (wonderful player). The Resolution Audio Opus 21 was also fantastic, but I think that I'm going to have to stay below $1600. I can appreciate the utter perfection of the Audio Note players, and the Wadia's, but they are not airy and 'human' enough for my taste. In other words, I can with an analytical mind give them a five star rating, but they don't seduce me in the same way that the Jolida does, despite the fact that the Jolida lags in performance behind these other players.
Some considerations: Muse Sig 9 Consonance 2.2 Audio Aero Prima ?? Transport + Bel Canto 2 DAC
Hopefully you fellow music lovers can offer suggestions of players I might consider. I would say finally that my ideal sound is one that most closely approximates the air, the space, and even the imperfections of the recording studio. I guess that's just the drummer in me.
Sorry, here is the rest of the two systems (both running with the Jolida as the source), if that helps. Maybe I should have posted this in the SYSTEMS section. I apologize if I drove down the wrong street, so to speak. (1) Audion Silver Night MKII SET amp Klipsch La Scala speakers Quicksilver pure silver speaker cable Michael Wolff carbon PC's (2) Audio Aero Prima Hybrid Amplifier Soliloquy 6.2 speakers Analysis Plus silver speaker cable VDH (Van Den Hul) PC
I agree whole heartedly that the Jolida JD-100 is a very competent CD. I own one rolled with the same Mullard CV4004s. I also own a completely unmodded Music Hall CD-25. I decided to do an A/B shootout with the Music Hall with my tube amp and Von Schweikerts. I found the CD25 to be a tad quicker and cleaner for less money, but slightly less sweet and musical- in terms of detail and resolution they were very close. (Just by coincidence I use the CD25 with LaScalas as well, 2nd system.) To get to your point there appears to be a certain quality level readily attained beyond that you have to think in terms of a much more expensive player. Since niether you or I can afford them i.e the capitole, I think a really good DAC is your answer. I suggest you give the Electrocompaniet DAC an audition. By the way you will be bypassing your tubed output so you can sell your improved Jolida and use another transport.
I also have been considering an upgrade to my Jolida. From my research it looks like one would have go an expensive unit such as a Simaudio Nova or Eclipse, Capitole, etc. to obtain a significant improvement. I am waiting to hear one of these pricey units in my system before making that investment.
You can get part of the way there with a few tweaks. One is changing the tubes to a black plate 3 mica version of the 5751 tube. See the following links for discussions on 12AX7 and 5751 tubes: http://www.audioasylum.com/scripts/d.pl?audio/faq/joes-tubes.html#12AX7 http://www.nickdangerous.com/misc/mghead/
Another tweak is an isolation platform. Mine consists of a partly inflated bicycle inner tube under a plywood board and then three marbles on top of upside down catfood cans. The jolida partically floats on top of this system and the sound is improved in all areas.
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