ArcamFJM CD36: Can it compete with newer players

Unfortunately, he lives about 2000 miles away. Tls49, you must have knowledge of the Arcam, but it looks like I will keep looking because thin bass is not for me.

There is Shandling 200T CD for sale on AG. It is a very attractive player and received very good reviews. However, one or two reviews claimed that the player goes into pause mode with CD's whose tracks either merge into each other or are spaced too closely.

If you know anything about this player or heard it, I will appreciate your comments.

Tls49, I may have taken more from your comment than what was stated. I thought you may have read or heard the same comments about the "thin bass". However, I agree completely with you about system synergy; however, used sales on AG are usually final with no returns. And, I don't want to take the chance on experimenting with a player that may work poorly in my system.

My system is somewhat tipped up on the highend, but not particularly distracting to the enjoyment of the music. Otherwise, it very neutral that is, on the analytical side. Overall, I generally prefer a neutral sound over a warmer, more forgiving presentation that loses detail and clarity in the process.

If I bought the Arcam and did not like it, I would have to then resell it in a depressed market and also have to sell the Rega Apollo no matter what player I finally settle on. Based on a few reviews, the Shandling may be a better bet because it is tubed player, and the major flaw of my system is too much glare from CD's and loss of some clarity on complex music

The Apollo, even at its original retail of $1195 is a great player, but not the last word in high end extension, clarity and resolution.

The "glare" factor could be the consequence of other components or cable synergy. Unfortunately, I am getting too old to again get on the component merry-go-round of finding the right match. The system sounds very good as it stands but I have concluded the weakness in its sound reproduction chain is the CD player. The system, it seems, needs a more compatible and superior link in the chain. Thanks for your comments and advice.