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Hypothetical - CD or SACD Player?

I'd like to hear some of your sentiments please. In the $1000 to $2000 price range (new or used), would my money be better spent on a CD player or an SACD player? Assume that whether or not I already have the discs to play is not an issue. Also ignore the myriad factors necessary to make a fully informed data-driven decision. I've read all the reviews I could find, but now am just looking for some good old-fashioned opining. But please, only from those who have spent some serious time listening to both formats. Thanks.
_mike
mrtennis
3,295 posts
 
this question cannot be answered without further input from you.

from my own experience, a vintage tube cd player is preferable to a current production sacd player. why ?

i prefer the classic tube sound, which is unattainable from any sacd player i have auditioned.
wwshull
157 posts
 
i just bought an sa- 10 and am extremly impressed. i would also reccomnd this piece of equipment
_mike OP
2 posts
 
Hi Alex,
Thanks for your reply. Further questions - As examples, it looks like a used Sony SCD-1 can be had for around $2K, and a used Marantz SA14 for about $1K. Would you say that neither of these would be a wise choice compared to a "better" CD player? Is the SA-10 (and its price) the break point at which SACD players begin to shine?
Mike
mdconnelly
133 posts
 
If you really are limited at $2k for a CDP and if SACD is not a priority, I think your best sound for the buck is in the redbook arena -- at least when considering new CDP prices.

But, if you are invested in SACD and you have a sufficiently resolving system, then save your pennies and keep an eye on the used market for well reviewed universals.
rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
Why not have both? A gently used Denon 5910 can be had within your budget. You could also get a modded 3910 for the same bucks.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?dgtlplay&1196975244

OR

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?dgtlplay&1197066727

-RW-
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