2. digital
  3. 188515-187348

Annoying newbie CD/SACD player question

I am still using my Sony 5 disc carousel CD player that I bought in 1992.  I have loved this thing for years and years.  Recently it started skipping.  I cured that with some budget isolation feet from Amazon.  After about a year it’s starting to act up again, not being able to register that a CD is in the tray.  Turning it off and on fixed that but even without the recent problem I’ve been looking for a replacement for a while now. 
 

I have around maybe 25 hybrid SACD’s and have always wanted to try the format.  The only SACD player I can afford new is the Arcam CDS50.  I’ve also looked at a used Marantz 8005 SACD player and various used Sony’s.  On the other hand I’m thinking of just forgetting about SACD and I’m primarily looking at the Cambridge transport and the Audiolab 600cdt.  I would consider the new Audiolab CDT models as well.   Part of me wants to scratch my SACD itch.  I think the Marantz used is the best option.  It’s a recent model so likely still a lot of life left in it.  Looking at gut shots it seems much better built than the Arcam.  Am I wrong about that?  As far as the Cd transport option It seems that the Audiolab is the best bang for the buck with the only downside being the slot loading mechanism that scratches some people’s discs.

I’m having a hard time deciding which avenue to take.  I guess, like most people, I’m looking for the most bang for the buck.  Sorry for the rambling post.  I thought maybe it would instigate some suggestions to help me with my decision.  Thanks

plasticspoon8

Showing 4 responses by mahler123

mahler123
3,051 posts
 

It would help to know what other components you have and what your budget is.

I had the maranztz 8005.  It had a great midrange but tended to roll off at the top.

   I listen to a lot of SACD.  My setup allows me to output the DSD  layer of the SACD (not all SACD players do this-some actually are outputing PCM) and I was listening to Jordi Savall's recording of Schuberts Unfinished Symphony and when the double basses start, then are augmented by the cellos, and then the violins enter, it's heavenly, especially as the DSD so clearly etches the timber of each instrument and where it belongs in space.

mahler123
3,051 posts
 

I have a Sony 5400ES on a shelf in my basement, unplayed for probably 5 years.  It had one annoying trait, in that every SACD would start about 3 seconds into the first track.  Redbook CDs not affected.  I should probably plug it in and see what it does now

mahler123
3,051 posts
 

I have a Sony 5400ES on a shelf in my basement, unplayed for probably 5 years.  It had one annoying trait, in that every SACD would start about 3 seconds into the first track.  Redbook CDs not affected.  I should probably plug it in and see what it does now

mahler123
3,051 posts
 

I like my CA CXN 60 very much, but hopefully you are aware that they have just released a new version with an upgraded DAC.  Regardless, even before the upgrade it’s an outstanding value

More to discover