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 11 responses by judy426

You have to take Norm's posts with a grain of salt. His latest acquisition, whether it be Vacuum Reference, Stealth Indra, H-Cat, Exemplar 3910, Exemplar 5910, Halcyonic, Cerious, ad. nauseum is always the greatest thing ever heard. Roll with the flow and wait for the next component. I am.
Guido based on your posts here and in other threads, I suggest you concern yourself more with you than me. Thank you.
Listening for yourself requires a good ear and hard work. Some just prefer to follow the leader and go with the flavor of the day hoping the leader knows what he is doing. This is frequently not the case.
Was there anything in my last post you disagree with? Given your intense interest and enthusiasm for this hobby I would expect your unequivocal support for my position.
I tell it like it is. Humility and diplomacy are for politicians and weaklings.
>>Alcohol after all is known to intensify one's musical experience<<

Only for the short term Guido. You're much better off as you are. Stay the course.
Audioezra, there are a dozens of ways to spend $11,000 and get better sonics from a cdp/isolation combo than that cheap modded Denon and Halcyonics platform. You really can't be serious.
$8000 platforms with a $3000 player. Hmmmmm, I'll bet you guys mount $5000 racing tires on your Yugos too. Same rationale.
>>Cars and stereos are not apples to apples.<<

It was a metaphor to show the absurdity of an $8000 platform and a $3000 cdp. Duh!