CD transports; do they really matter
In my pursuit of total sonic harmony, I have been investigating whether a CD transport ( to replace my bulky and aged Luxman CD player ) would be a good option. I had an interesting conversation with the manufacturers rep of a respected brand regarding his companies CD transport. He basically said its all in the DAC, the transport, as long as its not a cheap component, does not make much or any difference. So, I ask does it really matter?
@mdrone : I compared the Pro-ject to my Sim and there was an immediate and very significant improvement. Although I did not care for the ergonomics of the Pro-ject, its sonic merits were clear as day. You could order the Pro-ject from one of the online audio sellers than offer returns and return it if you didn't like it. The proof is in the listening!
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@noske : "However something that may be quite relevant, I reckon, is that in comparing a CDP with a transport plus DAC, is that the DACs are in fact being compared". Perhaps the answer to this is to run a digital cable from the CDP (thereby bypassing its internal DAC) to a standalone DAC, then compare that pairing to the sound of a standalone transport connected to the same standalone DAC. |
Lucky for you that placement is easy! I don't see a CDT3 on the Jay's website-- there's a CDT2 MK3. . . is that what you mean? I know they'll supply replacement lasers but not sure about the actual drive. If I bought the Jay's, I'd want a spare. @mdrone : Well, some of it is gone, which is why I don't play my electric guitar anymore (although I haven't had the heart to sell it, yet) and also why I have an SPL meter within reach of my listening chair ;o) |
Thanks, Charles; that's very encouraging! I've e mailed Jay's re: availability of spare drives. I'd still like to move to a top-loader but naturally am wary of the infamous "boat anchor syndrome". If I had the $, I'd just buy the Aqua Diva and be done with it. . . and a matching Formula DAC (why not?).but that's not likely. |
