Personally going through the same decision. After thinking of options over a long time, have come to the conclusion that I am going to audition the new Esoteric K-05XD (and 07XD) when it comes out later this year. The K-03XD has gotten rave reviews, but it’s out of my price range ($15K). You might want to consider it. I came to the conclusion since I thought that for $7.5K-10K (not sure what MSRP will be exactly for the 2 units), you get probably the best CD transport on the planet, plus a phenomenal DAC. Only downside is they are not separate. But it does have all kinds of digital inputs, including USB (but not IS2). Part of the reason I’m going this direction is that I do want an SACD capable transport, there aren’t many, I think just PS Audio and McIntosh. And with each of those, you essentially have to go with their DAC to get the proprietary hand-off for pure DSD.
CDP or DAC?
I want to get back to playing and enjoying my 500+ cd's! Been listening 95% of the time to a nice high end turntable $15k+ setup but would also like to have the option of listening to my cd collection to where it sounds at least competitive with my vinyl enjoyment.
I have no interest in streaming just playing cd's. Does it make more sense to go with a cdp or transport and separate dac?
Budget $5 - $15k. Thoughts
I have no interest in streaming just playing cd's. Does it make more sense to go with a cdp or transport and separate dac?
Budget $5 - $15k. Thoughts