2. digital
  3. 1014944570

I Need a Reference Point

Hi folks, I have a brand new Arcam CD-92 which I love because it is the first high-end CD player I've ever had. I used to think digital was digital was digital. Not anymore! Crisp, clear sound is what I hear now that has blossomed into open detail. Once spoiled, always spoiled, and I'd like a good player for my office where I listen to music all day.

So what I would like to understand is where the Arcam CD-02 fits into the high-end CD player spectrum. Is it generally considered clinical/analytical sounding? Is it generally considered warm sounding? I need a CD player that does not get tedious to listen to all day.

It will play through a Magnum Dynalab CD-208 receiver (unless I futz with a new FT Audio LW-1 that is coming in the mail). I have not selected the speakers yet, but was considering the Tannoy System 600 nearfield monitors (I love the Tannoy sound), but I might also consider Merlins or some other small speaker.

Thanks!
budrew

Showing 1 response by subaruguru

subaruguru
1,376 posts
 
Well, folks, he's pushin' for an answer....
I found the ARCAM to be pretty neutral and extended, with a decent open midband. A slight lack of PRaT, or two left footedness, was a bit unnerving.
I'm a musician who can't dance (something about anticipating the beat?), so my priority lies with temporal excellence, and that's where I find ARCAM's front ends underimpress. But they're surely harmonically nice, eh?
More to discover