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Has CD playback evolved in the last 5 years?

A recent thread asked if an older, inexpensive player should be repaired or replaced; and that has me asking the question - has cd playback technology evolved to the point where it's now prudent to replace older (say 5 years or more) players because of advancements in technology? I have an older Arcam FMJ 23 that sounds really nice, but I'm wondering if new players or DACs will give me better sonics than my Arcam. (I live in an area where I can't audition equipment very easily)
rockyboy

Showing 3 responses by doggiehowser

doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I agree with Edorr. I own an XDS1 and an MPS-5 both of which convert PCM to DSD and they both sound superb.

I do think they have taken CD playback to the next level.

But I still keep my Ayon CD5S. There's a time and place for everything and there's something right about the quad PCM1704UK (even if it's an old R2R chip). It's not as detailed or as resolving but with the tube output, it's a really good alternative sometimes.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
Edorr, the Playback and the Ayon (used as a pre primarily) is in the study. The speakers are Lenehan ML2 Reference with a Plinius SA-Reference.

The EMM Labs XDS1 is in the main media room with an ARC Reference 5SE to Nemos driving Thiel CS3.7s. I also run two SS2.2 subs.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
Strictly speaking, you have to consider the 2xSS2.2s + S1 as part of the main speakers :D
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