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CD player for my system

I am looking at getting a new CD player in the under 2K range (yeah I know, this topic is done to death). I'm not sure what would be best for my current/future set-up. I need a new amp (which I plan on getting sometime after a new CDP) and am using Monitor Audio Silver S6 speakers (which I don't plan on replacing in the near future).

I have been thinking about some nicer models, such as the Simaudio Nova or the Ayre CX-7 (both used), but am wondering if it is worth spending the extra $ considering my system. I have also considered a Naim CD5, which I think would go well with the speakers and my musical preferences (good sense of rhythm). But maybe going to a Rega Jupiter would be a better value on my system.

Any thoughts? Leaning towards the Nova, except maybe not the best value for my system.

Also, does anyone have any comments on the Audio Analogue Maestro? I found a good deal on a used one, but it was not a CDP I was previously considering.

Thanks,
mbutler_ca

Showing 3 responses by ben_campbell

ben_campbell
1,169 posts
 
I think the way you have described what your looking for,then in theory the CX-7 could do the job.
Of course I think it would be safer if you auditioned but I realise that may not be possible.
The Ayre is smooth but natural sounding and I think very good with all types of music, it really just really gives you whats on the disc -there are not many who've heard it been able to pick out obvious weaknesses in it's sound-it shouldn't add to the brightness but it is a very detailed player.
I do think to some extent though your speakers imho sound like a bit of a problem-I think you could easily get it wrong or the synergy of what you pick in reality might not match the reviews or opinions you've been given.
Let us know how you get on.
ben_campbell
1,169 posts
 
I auditioned the Ayre CX-7 and a Linn Ikemi with my old amp-a Sugden a21A-my thinking was similar to your own (particularly with the Ayre)that perhaps my system wasn't quite up to the level of CD player I was choosing however my system did show up marked differences between these players and I decided I wanted a CX-7,simply because it sounded superb in a system that retailed for less than the cost of it(£2.5k amp/speakers to £3k CDplayer).
Whilst looking around for a CX-7 I actually came across a great deal on an AX-7 so I bought that.
I think it very much depends on the equipment but strangely if you can judge things like this; the CX-7 performance with my old amp was actually more impressive that it was when I eventually got one and put it with it's AX-7 partner.
Of course the AX-7 took my system to another level when I got it so I was not at the same starting point.
I couldn't guarantee this would happen in your system but this is what I found.
Hope this helps.
ben_campbell
1,169 posts
 
Mbutler-seems a bit rich you asking for the best CD player in your system when you are going to change that very system.
I think the two posts prior to your follow up replied to specific points you made.
Nobody can safely supply the information you are looking for unless they have exactly the same system.
You did post "any thoughts".
Sorry for trying to help.
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