TRL Sony 2000es or RAM Toshiba 3960


These two highly achieving players are similiarly priced with mods.
How do they compare?
Is one better?
I've read great things about them both.
If I like a detailed, fast, open, neutral, transparent sound, which one is for me?
Or maybe I'll get a Benchmark DAC 1!
Thanks for any comments or experiences.
Bill
mr_bill
I know. I'm going to have TRL mod an SA-11 as soon as the new units hit the dock.
I recently referred a friend to TRL for the rework of his Toshiba 3960, he's had it back a couple of days now. I'm surprised that such a cheap little player can have such good video. I'd say picture is nearly as good as my DV50s. I think it may be a little thinner than the Sony TRL/2000, but otherwise has good air and resolution and depth. It may change during break-in and get close to my (trl) DV 50 in the bass?
Deb
I had a stock SA11 and it was a big ZERO in my system. Ironic though that I also placed an order for a TRL SA11. Why?? Because of my conversation with Paul. I let Paul speak first about what needs to be improved. Every thing he mentioned that the stock unit lacked in regards to sound quality was exactly the way my ears heard it. We shall find out in a few weeks.
Paul and Brian at TRL have an amazing ear and I think it is due to their live field recording and audio engineering work.
Yes, they are evaluating different units and are very impressed with Marantz units as platforms if one wishes to spend a bit more than the Sony units they have been doing.
I am trying to sort out which one to try next.
I'm quite curious about how the TRL 3960 will turn out... I had been in touch with Paul re the 2000ES but I'd prefer to mod a unit that plays DVD as well. That said, I'm not too confident about the durability of the 3960.