Tubemiser, I recently substituted an upgraded meridian 508.24 and was struck by a naturalness in the upper mids and highs that I perceive to be lacking in the ARC. Also, the meridian seemed to dig deeper in the lows. However, the meridian also seemed to have a much warmer sound, almost a glow in the mids that I perceived to interfere with the transparency I was accustomed to with the ARC. I realize I am splitting hairs here, but I guess what I am after is a more balanced sound, natural timber, extended on the extremes, and no compromises in transparency and clarity. Does this help? Maybe you are correct in that what I am after can't be had at this point in time for under a grand. I am still amazed at how wonderfully natural analogue sounds in comparison (aside from the pops, clicks and noise floor).
ARC CD-2, dac or player upgrade?
I've had an ARC CD-2 for years and although it is a very nice player, I was wondering whether an inexpensive newer dac or even a newer player altogether would be an improvement. Is there anything out there for <<$1000 new or used that would beat the ARC player? I would even consider a mod at this point. Thanks for your input.