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Advice on CD transport

Here’s the situation:

Am purchasing two channel integrated amp with built in DAC shortly (likely Hegel H390. Love the DAC section).  Big CD enthusiast and I’m looking for a great transport under the $1k range (used is more than acceptable).  My issue is buying a standalone transport is too rich for my blood so looking for a CD player with awesome transport. I hate paying for the DAC in it I won’t be using but such is being audio poor. 
I’ve always liked the Rega line but am wondering what anyone has found/used.  If you’ve got any helpful input without getting into DIY, please feel free to chime in. 
CJ
cjlundberg
scottwhit's avatar
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scottwhit
5 posts
 
Bel Canto CDT3 is a transport only.  I  don’t have anything to compare it to but it seems very good and is very basic in operation.  I like the slot loader also.  Might find a used one for around a $1k
imthorek
21 posts
 
My first CD transport is a Theta which broke and went to several other transports.  I like my current one which I've had for over five years.  It is a Raysonic tubed transport which I chose for its top loading features.  It's been working very well for me with my Benchmark DAC.

Imthorek
willwill
2 posts
 
A Cambridge Audio CXC CD Transport, used, is on sale on Audiogon for $450
Well reviewed

mdpc
4 posts
 
I have been using a Denon CD player and have been unsatisfied but recently I bought an Audiolab 6000CDT which I play through my Audiolab 6000 integrated amp.  Sound is fantastic and the lack of any noise is wonderful as well. For under $600 the Audiolab cannot be beat.
fleschler
2,008 posts
 
I have a related question.  I am using my EAR Acute as a transport for my COS Engineering DV2 DAC.   Does replacing the EAR with a standalone transport improve my sound?   If so, what transport would significantly make an improvement?  A Luxman, Marantz or Esoteric transport?  Something less expensive or a high end used unit?   I have not experimented with transports as until this year, I always had a player.  Thanks.
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