2. analog
  3. 1204584949

Got a New CD Player and Now I'm Bummed

Hope to get some help here...I recently added an Esoteric X-03SE to my system the details of which you can see here. I've always been a huge fan of vinyl and have a large collection--many more LP's than CD's. The problem is my digital front end is now WAY better sounding than my analogue set up. (My last CD player, a Naim CDX2, was about on par with my table--better in some areas, not as good in others). I'm finding myself listening to many more CD's while my LP's are dying for attention. I never thought this would happen to me! So, now I'm faced with upgrading my analogue to the point of parity (or better?) with my digital. (Wierd, right?). I could use some suggestions. One limiting factor is the overall height of the new analogue set up cannot be much taller than what I have since it needs to sit on a wall mount shelf that fits inside our entertainment center. So, I need a table/arm/cartridge set up that sounds DRAMATICALLY better than my Scout/JMW9/Dyna 20XM but doesn't need a ton of head room. What do you think I need to spend to get significantly better performance than what I have already? What would you all suggest for a new analogue front end? I'm thinking a Scoutmaster, Sota Cosmos or perhaps going back to an LP 12 with works. Ideas? Thanks!
dodgealum

Showing 1 response by rhljazz

rhljazz
1,255 posts
 
I agree with Cytocycle concerning a preamp/phono stage upgrade. I recently had to have repairs done to my VAC preamp and I auditioned an SP16 (didn't like it) and a Manley (no phono) which was far superior to the SP16. I purchased the Manley to use while the VAC was away. My backup phono stage is a Phomonena which I used with the Manley. I don't have an audiophile approved turntable but it works and sounds just fine for me. When the VAC was away for repair they performed a mod to the phono stage that is remarkable to say the least. Prior to repair, for the most part, the cd system sounded better. Now the LP playback kicks out some serious dynamic and detailed music that beats the cd system.
In the least, if you are married to the SP16, try a quality outboard phono stage. Your turntable is superior to what I'm using and I think you would be astounded by what a real good phono stage would do.
More to discover