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Cary 306 Professional vs. Marantz SA11S3

I am trying to make a decision on 2 SACD/CD players: The Cary Audio 306 Professional, which retails for $8,000 and the Marantz SA11S3, which retails for $4,000. I can purchase the Cary Audio for 50% at least, so it puts it at the same price point as the Marantz. The Cary was made a while back, while the Marantz is newer. However, I am trying to discern in terms of quality, build, and CD performance, which is the more superior? I've read some great things on the Marantz, though there were very little comparisons to other CD player options. Looks like the Audio Research CD8 kind of sets the standard, but at $10,000, it is way out of my price range. So what about the Cary vs. the Marantz? Looking for a player with no listening fatigue (which neither players really have at all), detail, resolution, clarity with neutral to slight warmth. Something very musical while retrieving as much detail as possible in this price range. Much appreciation.

My system is Primaluna Dialogue HP Premium Integrated Tube Amp & Sonus Faber Olympica III speakers. Thanks!
djfst
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"So I chose the Cary, I think it would work well with your tubed gear, if you don't mind the lack of SACD."

I'm pretty sure the 306 plays SACD's.
jh901
67 posts
 
I use a Cary 306 SACD Pro for my digital front end. I'm not sure which model Alpha_gt is referring to but it isn't the 306. I enjoy mine tremendously paired with their SLP-05 and 200.2 (with Focal speakers). At least 200 hours of break in as the sound will change a good bit, especially bass.

Anyhow, the 306 SACD Pro at $4,000 or so seems about right. Dennis Had was involved in the development ('07-'08) before he retired. I'd go in a different direction today if SACD physical disc isn't needed. Otherwise, there aren't too many SACD players at any given price point to consider.

- Josh
newbee
4,751 posts
 
FWIW, based on my use of a Marantz SA11S3 and from what I've read about the Cary, if I had to make a blind choice between the two I'd base my decision on the tonal balance differences between the two. I'd guess that I'd prefer the Marantz in a leaner system(SS?) and the Cary in a warmer system (tubes?). I find in my system (definitely warmer) the Marantz sounds best with small groups and solo instruments. The lower mid-range upper bass seems to get a bit thick (compared to my Wadia 302 which I much prefer on large orchestral music in general, especially those with a warmer balance in the first place). I'm agnostic about SACD's - as far as I'm concerned the performance issues involved in most recordings will overwhelm any sonic benefits of redbook v SACD.

Hope that helps, a little bit anyway.
henrycai's avatar
henrycai
120 posts
 
Be careful with the Marantz Reference Line, the last few years I have seen a lot of this line sold as B-stock or Refurbish, including the SA/CD-11S3 this year going for $2500 in NY B-Stock and a little more on line Mail Order. I myself after buying from that line 3 years ago had 2 return a unit because when I turned all the lights off n used a search light I could see were a big touchup was done on the unit, they had 2 take it back, also had a problem with the second unit. I would say its all about POOR QC. hope this helps.
djfst OP
169 posts
 
Came across the EAR Acute Cd player or the Ear Acute Mk3 - have never heard of this company and a lot of people seem to to like these cd players. For a tube lover, the EAR looks very interesting. Any more recent owners choose this CD player? Has anyone had any issues with reliability or defects? That is one concern getting into digital equipment..
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