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buy upsample processor or new CD player? Or ... ?

I guess I'm working on an entry-level system, and am looking for bang-for-the-buck options to compliment my cd sound. What I'm working with: Vandersteen 2ce signatures, Sony 79es 5-disc changer, Denon 3802 reciever. I'll be able to shop for cable this summer, but right now I have MIT T-2 speaker cables and Coincident ICs. I just read about the GW Labs DSP upsampler in Bound for Sound, and for $399 it sounds like an interesting way to get more out of my non-SACD/non-DVDa CD collection. I think my CD player needs to be upgraded as well, but I can only afford to do one or the other. I am considering either a used Rega Planet or a used AH! Njoe Tjoeb 4000 if I can find a good price. I'm especially interested in feedback from anyone with the GW DSP or something comparable. I just wanted to hear what the better options would be. As I see it, the GW is an intriguing but unconfirmed step up that my current CD player might not do justice. Thanks in advance for your advice; I'm just starting out and have had really kind input here on Audiogon so far.
sfd101

Showing 1 response by jfacker

jfacker
85 posts
 
I've heard the Bel Canto DAC 1 and the 1.1 in my system, and I agree, the 1.1 to my ears was only a minor improvement in certain areas. However, either one with a nice power cord and interconnects was a MAJOR improvement over the low dollar digital equipment I've used. Better than a Rega or comparably priced Arcam etc, I don't know but I suspect so. Plus you can hook it up to your DVD player and you've got a one box movie/music machine with very respectable sound. OK, two boxes.

I noticed that $500 DAC 1 too, and said to myself, that thing's gonna last about 30 seconds...

It's my humble opinion that upsampling is the ticket to an extended life span for 16/44 material. It remains to be seen whether or not it's going to be implemented in more mass market products (like the Denon and I think Onkyo has some upsampling receivers too). I sure hope so.
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