TRL Sony 2000es or RAM Toshiba 3960

The Sony 2000ES cost around $249-300 and the Marantz SA-8260 is a $1,000-$1,200 unit, so , it is a lot more. I own a Toshiba SD-3960 and compared to the 2000ES, the construction difference is HUGE. The Sony is much better in every respect. I would think it twice ( or more) to invest my money on the Toshiba rather than the 2000ES. But that it just my opinion!!

Jahaira-

I have never seen nor heard a Toshiba 3960. I had heard they were going for like 60 bucks somewhere lately.
When I suggested that Jsala talk to Paul about the build quality I did not mean to imply anything good or bad about it. What I meant is that they might have a valuable opinion- I have no idea.

As far as the Marantz 8260 - they are all over Agon for between $675 on up used and $800+ new. Yes, retail is high, but no one pays retail.
I have no idea if it will mod out well for TRL.
They certainly like the Marantz higher end units and seem fond of Marantz build quality. We will see what they have to say.

Sorry if my words were confusing Lkdog, I don't mean it. I just want to state that both units are in a different price range ( Sony/Marantz). The Toshiba is a big achiever but nothing spectacular. Here " http://www5.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=70377&highlight=toshiba+sd-3960" you can see pictures and a long thread about the Toshiba Sd-3950 which is about the same unit as the 3960. I have to admit that I was into the 3960 mods before I bought my 2000ES. After I heard both unit on my system, I took the Toshiba to video duties and the 2000Es to my main rig.

The 8260 was another unit I was looking for about a year or so ago but the related built quality issues posted here and at Audio Asylum keep me away from it. Like you said, Paul is the guy and he is the one who can best express which unit deserve consideration.

Hasta luego!!

I'm sending Paul a Marantz SA14. Paul said that after mods, the only competition it has, is TRL's own $30K machine. Here's hoping! :-)

Jahaira-
No worries bro..
I just wanted to make clear that I sure am no expert at the build quality of these various units.
I would guess that the Sony 2000 is a big step up overall in build quality and that usually translates into sound.
I maybe should have been more careful in how I related Paul's comment. He really just thought the 3960 turned out nicely in many ways. Thanks for the link on it.

As for the 8260, I am wondering actually how it will turn out being a unit with a slightly older technology-but we will see what they think.
These are exciting times in digital.