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Absolute Best CD Players Out There Under $12k ?

Ok, I'm looking to upgrade my CD Player. It's the last part of my uber-headphone system and I'm hoping to get the best player possible for under $12k used. I know that affords me alot of options, and I imagine I'll do some travelling and testing before I buy, but I wanted some opinions first. Right now, these are the main ones I'm considering:

*Reimyo CDP-777
*Linn Sondek CD12
*Naim CDS3/XPS2
*Wadia 270/27
*Wadia 861se w/Statement mod from GNSC
*Meridian 808
*EMM Labs Meitner CDSD/Dac6
*Esoteric DV-50 with full mods from Reference Audio Mods
*Classe Omega SACD

I'm not so much into characteristics - the overall performance is more important for me. But I do need a player with great bass (both in extension, detail, and volume) as my headphones are a bit bass shy. Any reviews/comparisons would be much appreciated.
no1willfan

Showing 3 responses by aplhifi

aplhifi
515 posts
 
From your list of stock units I'd pick the CDSD/DAC6 or DCC2 without second thought.

There are some to tell you that EMM is not that great. It is because they are not aware of the DRAMATIC improvement (night and day) the new CDSD transport is compared to the previous Philips SACD1000 based EMM transport.

Regards,
Alex
aplhifi
515 posts
 
Deb, I sure don't understand your point, but this might explain it better:

Deb's TRL DV-50

How can you comment on the RAM player since you've never heard one? I see, since APL is the "enemy", anything else is REALLY good. :-)

I am sorry I can not provide the link to a TRL modded DV-50 (just like yours) which was for sale here on Audiogon not long ago. I hope you can figure out why it was sold.

Best!
aplhifi
515 posts
 
Here is a clarification about stock Digital performance.

When it comes to pure CD reproduction, cost no object, the latest Zanden combo is what you really want.

If SACD is a must, then the latest EMM Labs DCC2/DAC6 or DCC2 is the only ticket, cost no object.

Regards,
Alex
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