You can buy a used Cary 303/100 for $1000 (maybe a little more). I've haven't actually heard one, but plenty of people rave about them on AudioAsylum all the time. They were originally $2500 or so, but sell for less because there is a newer 303/200 model. I went the DAC route myself (an EVS Millenium 2 for $1000) and I've been extremely happy with the sound.
CDP with "holographic" sound for less than 1000?
I am looking for a cdp to live with for the next five years. I am looking for the holographic or "in the room" sound. Most reviews focus on "inner detail" and "low level resolution". I think that these are similar but perhaps different. I also want to minimize "listener fatigue".
Players I've seen highly recommended in the desired "imaging" and "sound-stage depth" area are Theta Miles, Anthem CD1, Jolida JD100 and Musical Fidelity A3. Other highly rated options seem to be Rotel, Arcam, Adcom, Cambridge Audio but these are usually noted for their "clarity", etc.
I have eliminated Rega (no front-loaders), Jolida 603 (didn't like the mechanism), Cal Audio (no service available??), and the newer formats (will wait a few years for SACD, etc.).
I have been very happy with my pre-amp upgrade to an Anthem PRE-1L and am looking to slowly upgrade the rest. Other system components are Adcom 555 amp and KEF Reference 1 speakers (small floor-standers with laid-back British sound and good imaging). IC's are AQ Coral. Speaker wires are Monster. Other system recommendations are welcome.
The music I like is Rock (Steely Dan, Santana, Floyd, Sting), Jazz (Miles, of course), Blues (Hooker), and vocals.
The room is approx. 15' by 20' with vaulted ceiling and hardwoord floors.
Thanks to all Audiogoners!!! You have gotten me back into the hobby after many years of hating CD sound.
Players I've seen highly recommended in the desired "imaging" and "sound-stage depth" area are Theta Miles, Anthem CD1, Jolida JD100 and Musical Fidelity A3. Other highly rated options seem to be Rotel, Arcam, Adcom, Cambridge Audio but these are usually noted for their "clarity", etc.
I have eliminated Rega (no front-loaders), Jolida 603 (didn't like the mechanism), Cal Audio (no service available??), and the newer formats (will wait a few years for SACD, etc.).
I have been very happy with my pre-amp upgrade to an Anthem PRE-1L and am looking to slowly upgrade the rest. Other system components are Adcom 555 amp and KEF Reference 1 speakers (small floor-standers with laid-back British sound and good imaging). IC's are AQ Coral. Speaker wires are Monster. Other system recommendations are welcome.
The music I like is Rock (Steely Dan, Santana, Floyd, Sting), Jazz (Miles, of course), Blues (Hooker), and vocals.
The room is approx. 15' by 20' with vaulted ceiling and hardwoord floors.
Thanks to all Audiogoners!!! You have gotten me back into the hobby after many years of hating CD sound.
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