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Dedicated CD Player Recommendation

Hi All,

Feel free to check out my virtual system to see my full system. In a nutshell, I've got an EAD CD-1000, Bryston BP-20, Bryston 4-NRB, and PMC LB-1 loudspeakers. I've got a small 9x9 room and listen to the PMCs nearfield. Last year, I added an inexpensive universal player, Pioneer 563a, and a turntable, Rega P-25, to the system. These, along with some aging ears, have exposed limitations with the CD-1000. Specifically, the treble glare is driving me nuts. The player has tons of detail along with articulate bass, but sounds a bit harsh with most female vocalists or strident recordings. I can throw the same disc into the Pioneer player and lose the glare. While it overall doesn't sound as good as the CD1000, it's a lot easier on my ears.

I've had a chance to audition a variety of players from Arcam, Jolida, Primare, Rega, and Simaudio. Of sub-$1200 players, the Jolida and Rega Planet had a nice smooth sound, but lacked the detail I've come to expect. At the higher price points, the Arcam CD-33 is very nice, but the Simaudio Equinox really grabbed my ears. I haven't brought it home for an audition yet. I would like to hear some other recommendations for players to look at new or used under $2500. I'd really like to hear from any other Bryston/PMC owners what players have great synergy in your system.

Thanks,
Erik
proggy

Showing 1 response by snaveen

snaveen
2 posts
 
hi everybody,
i think the musical fidelity a308 is one of the best players made for the money.the way its build is awesome(save for cd drawer and remote). you can find good used one for around $1850.the sound is very sweet yet musical and lots of detail.i also have primare d30.2 running thru bryston b-60 to nht st4's.the primare is also very good but a bit analytical and laid back in the midrange.i haven't tried the balanced outputs on the primare since both my integrateds bryston b-60 and moon i-3
doesn't have bal inputs.the most expensive player i heard was a new mbl in an all mbl system . i compared a308 with the mbl in the same system and the mbl has bit more tigther bass , high frequency ext. sometimes less is more.
for the money cant beat the a308.
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