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CDP with volume and digital input...Which one?

I am currently searching for this kind of CDP.I've narrowed down to few:

1.Wadia 861 SE, 581, 850 or 860.
2.Resolution Audio Opus 21+GNSC mods
3.DcS P8i
4.One not in this group, but also considered is Njoe Tjoeb 4000+all upgrades.
5.Cambridge Audio 840C (no volume is a minus)
6.Mark Levinson 390S

I have very big and sensitive speakers, full range(Silverline Sinfonia).Also 320B XLS SET monos (15 W/ch).CDP will be connected directly to 320B XLS power amps.
I need dynamics, punch, great bass and a lot of it,also smooth but extended top end and natural midrange...
Listening to heavy metal mostly,also jazz, female vocals.
Has anyone heard any of these players in A/B comparisons?
Which one is the best overall,and which one is a best buy?
Thanks
audiobb

Showing 3 responses by audiobb

audiobb OP
103 posts
 
Thanks guys.

Priz,try to make an objective comparison as you obviously have the experience needed.

1.Wadia 861 (GNS Statement) vs. Cary 306/200 vs. Accuphase DP 500?
The areas for comparisons -
1. Bass (depth, tightness, speed, and dynamics of the double bass pedal)
2.Midrange (clarity, natural-sounding, vocal performance, timbre)
3.Treble (extension, smoothnes, and non-etched)
4.Soundstage
5.Non-digital (but without losing clarity,resolution and frquency extremes)

I will connect my player to 320B XLS SET thru Gabriel Gold Revelation IC cables, and both are extremely natural, relaxed and analog-like.I don't want a player that sacrifices dynamics or bass output.If my system is going to be weak anywhere, it could only be those areas.That's why dynamics and bass speed and impact are very important.

Since 306/200 outperforms 303/200, i will add 306/200 on my list.And Accuphase DP 500 too.Does Accuphase DP 500 have volume control?
audiobb OP
103 posts
 
Priz,
I am surprised you also have Gabriel Gold ICs.I find them excellent.What is you opinion on these cables?

About Cd players - i believe my system will have relaxed presentation anyway, i think i need a more dynamic player.
What about Cary 306/200? Everywhere i looked at,it is very positively reviewed.Can anyone compare this player to Wadia 850 or 861(with or without GNSC)?
ALSO- CD playback is important to me, SACD not.Is 861se or 581se better on CD?Can someone clear this up a bit?
And how much better are they than 850?Is 581 or 861 worth the extra cash, compared to 850?
Thanks
audiobb OP
103 posts
 
I chose to try a Quad CDP-2...
For some time it will be my reference player. Untill funds allow an upgrade.I still want to go in "one box solution" way,only next time i will go with the player little more expensive.
Then Quad will move to my bedroom.
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