2. digital
  3. 147147-10

Differences between cd transports?

Howdy,I borrowed a dedicated CD transport (Musical Fidelity) from a friend. I have found that music sounds much better with his transport than with the CD player I’ve been using to spin CDs. In both cases, I am using exactly the same DAC via the optical out connection from the transport and the CD player. So: is there any rational reason that, using the same digital to analog converter, one CD spinner should sound much better than another?Thanks!  
rebbi

Showing 2 responses by fleschler

fleschler
2,045 posts
 
My SR fuses are absolutely directional.  As to most of my cabling, it becomes directional with use, with ICs marked on one end so that it is always inserted in the same direction.  

As to CD transports, I guess I'm lazy and prefer my one piece EAR Acute player with upgraded NOS tubes and superior cabling.  It sounds analog like, great bass, dynamic range and smooth highs.  The mids sound just like a good  LP.

I've always heard that the superior transports extract more information off he CD.  Until I have a split system of transport and DAC, I won't know how much better CDs can sound.  
fleschler
2,045 posts
 
I heard my friend's new DAC from COS Engineering and it blew away my EAR Acute.  Using a 1998 Pioneer DV-5 DVD player with a dual laser for the spinner, the DAC increased the enjoyment of listening by improved bass, dynamics, soundstage, imaging, resolution without adding negative characteristics.  No tubes.  I (and he) was shocked at the huge difference.  His DAC is a few years old and my EAR Acute is 11 years old.  Maybe separates are better or DACs have greatly improved.
More to discover