2. digital
  3. 1350306389

Best one-chasis CD/SACD player under $15 000?

Hi, I'm currently running an all Electrocompaniet top system with EMC-1UP as a source. However I will be changing to Classe amplification (my speakers are B&W 800 Di) quite soon so it makes sense to upgrade the source as well. Sadly Classe doesn't make CD players anymore so I'm in the market for a robust, huge and neutral sounding CD/SACD player that would be a real step up from EMC-1UP. I don't want any artificial sweetening, tubes, colorationes etc. Just pure signal. However I don't want to go separates (not to mention 4 block monsters a-la dCS). Can I buy real Hi End sound in one chasis under 15 grand?
antonkk

Showing 3 responses by doggiehowser

doggiehowser
672 posts
 
The Playback is > 15k now with the USB-X box and I think it sounds great. The XDS1 is a cleaner more neutral sound but the MPS5 is so close to it, it's a real bargain. I use the MPS5 in my second system while the XDS1 is in the main room.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I have no idea. There is no switch at the back and it uses a linear PSU rather than a switched mode like the EMM.

Having been A:B-ing on discs, I still think the XDS1 sounds a tad more resolving. The Playback sounds a bit richer but it's at the expense of the last smidgeon of detail. But for the most part, it's very enjoyable because there's more emphasis on the vocals and strings/instruments in that range. The XDS1 allows more of the background instruments to be discernible and it is impressive in that way. Both are smooth and grain free, very analog sounding.

BTW, I thought the USB-X with AudirvanaPlus reduced that midrange emphasis a bit which made it sound more like the XDS1. Odd, huh?
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
@Kevinzoe, the Oppo does not output USB to an external DAC.

The 105 does have USB inputs, but not output.
More to discover