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CD player

I mainly stream music but do have a considerable jazz and classical music CD collection which I like to listen to on occasion. My CD player is a NAD C515bee. I run it through analog connection or as a transport vis Schiit Modi 3 DAC. To my ears I prefer NAD internal DAC which appears more open and dynamic but also harsh. I am considering getting a better CD player but would prefer to stay between $600 and $1000. I am looking at Rotel C11tribute, Marantz 6007CD or Audiolab CDT6000 which I would use with Schiit Modi 3 DAC. I am wondering if Schiit Modi 3 DAC is good enough to use with Audiolab and which of these three choices would provide best audio results? Rest of my system is Naim Nait 5si, ML 35XTI and ML Dynamo 800X speakers/sub. Thanks

xti35
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

Another option to consider. Pro-Ject does quite well providing high level CD playback at reasonable cost. 

 

ericsch
752 posts
 

I had a Rega Apollo-R which was an

excellent CDP. No harshness, very 

analog sound. I only decided to sell

the Rega when I got a Pontus II and

paired it with a Pro-Ject transport.

I recommend the Rega and it can be

found used below your budget.

 

drlisz
23 posts
 

+1 Marantz CD6007 bought new 6 months ago and it sounds great. I also stream Tidal but to give an example. When listening to a track like say "Unchain the Night" from the band Dokken  streamed MQA on Tdal HI FI  and then listen to the same track on the Marantz it is so much better on the cd player just full, clear, and detailed. 

xti35 OP
4 posts
 

Thank you all for the advice and a great discussion. I failed to mention that I stream Amazon HD using Bluesound Node [most recent model.] Based on the input received my first step will be to upgrade the DAC so that I can both improve Bluesound’s and NAD’s sound [though I am generally happy with the Bluesound’s DAC,] and then add a cd transport. Thanks again!

ghdprentice
6,965 posts
 

Also, I recommend switching to Qobuz.. better sounding and more high Rez albums

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