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Best redbook-only CD Player under $10k - Bryston BCD3, Resolution Audio Cantata 3.0, ....

I’m interested in hearing thoughts on great CD players under $10k.  I prefer single box and not separate DAC and Transport.  I’m ok with high quality used gear too.  I’ve read good things about the two players in the title and I’ve heard the Esoteric K03x and was impressed (it outperformed the Wadia 781i quite easily).  I’d be interested in hearing if anyone did some side-by-side comparisons too.  I don’t have any SACDs so I don’t need that functionality.  Thanks!
goldman

Showing 2 responses by rodge827

rodge827's avatar
rodge827
616 posts
 
Look at the Sparkler Audio S503 Smart CD Player. I have listened to this numerous times at Charney Audio (Dealer). Every time I’m overly impressed what this little cd player with the NOS TDA1543 can do with red book. The player is $1750.00, save your money!  If your in the NY,NJ,PA area you can check it out at Charney Audio.
http://sparkler-audio.com/portfolio/S503_en.html
http://charneyaudio.com/sparkler.html
rodge827's avatar
rodge827
616 posts
 
@goldman I have listened to the Cantata side by side to the above mentioned Sparkler S503. The Sparkler has a real organic natural truth to the music, where the Cantata, although very good, lacked naturalness. The Cantata was good Hifi where the Sparkler had great realism in sound quality.
This comparison was done on a revealing high efficiency horn system with stellar associated electronics.
As usual YMMV.    
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