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Help with Denon 2900/5900 or MarantzDV8400 or ?

I am looking for someone who has first hand experience with any of the "universal players" currently on the market. If you have had a chance to compare them that is even better. I have been researching the models from Denon and Marantz as they are more in my price range. I am looking for a player that has very good SACD & DVD-A performance. I don't know which format will prevail in the future (maybe both) but I would like to be prepared and in the meantime I will sample both. CD playback is VERY (the most important right now) important. I currently have alot of CD's and do not anticipate replacing them. I just sold my Rega Planet 2000, and would like to stay at or above that level of performance. Video performance is important, but probably last on the list if I have to prioritize. A DVI output would be nice as I beleive my Mitsubishi HDTV has a DVI input. I listen mostly to rock and country... Clapton, Dave Matthews, Shania, etc.. but have a little of everything. Here is my list of equipment...

Sunfire TGII processor
Parasound 2205AT amp
Paradigm 100v2 and studio cc speakers
DH Labs BL1 and Q10 cables

Any suggestions would be appreciated...
matt54321

Showing 3 responses by matt54321

matt54321 OP
16 posts
 
There are just so many options and I can't possibly demo them all especially where I live. I am hoping to demo the 2900 within the next week. I am wondering if I should go with the 2900 (based on video/ SACD/ DVD-A performance) and purchase a DAC for redbook. Anyone have any thoughts on using a DAC like Bel Canto DAC2 or MF A3.24 versus having the unit modded. Also from what I have read is the redbook performance the only downfall of the 2900?
matt54321 OP
16 posts
 
Eldartford... You said you don't hear a need to upgrade. What have you traditionally listened to for redbook CDs in the past. In other words how would you specifically rate or compare the 2900 to other units you have listened to? I am really hoping to line up a demo for myself, but for now I have to depend on others feedback. Thanks...
matt54321 OP
16 posts
 
Socrates... There is some price difference between the DV8400 and the DVD2900, I think about $500. What if I was to take that $500 and put it towards a used DAC? Was the redbook performance the only thing lacking in your comparison of the marantz/denon units or in your opinion was the SACD and DVD-A performance of the Denon better/worse then the Marantz. If so how would you describe the differences?
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