2. digital
  3. 127186-5658

Jolida Fusion DAC/transport: opinions or other DAC/transport alternatives?

Hi all,
I've been looking for a CD player with a little future proofing thrown in (in the way of digital inputs). I have many CDs that I'd like to keep for critical listening sessions, but would like to run a USB or toslink from my imac for access to my digital library for convenience sake.

The Jolida Fusion DAC/transport caught my interested but I can find nothing in the way of information or reviews (save for one). I like the tube idea, but it's not mandatory. I've used a couple of Shanling tubed CD players in the past with good success.

Other player/DACS I've researched but ruled out include the Cambridge Audio Azur 851C, (most seem to agree this is a very analytical sound, and not one I would enjoy), and the Rega Saturn R. The Marantz SA8005 looks good on paper, but again, I've heard it's sound can be a little analytical and sterile.

I'd welcome recommendations for other units in the $2k or less range that can handle optical or USB in.
Thanks!
yakbob

Showing 4 responses by yakbob

yakbob OP
487 posts
 
thanks for the input so far guys.
Mb1audio, it's not that I'm trying to fix something in my system with the possible addition of a tubed source, as much as avoid adding a component described as cold, thin, analytical, or providing hyper-detail.

I've run 2 tubed SACD players in the past (Shanling SCD-T200 and SCD-3000) and have had great synergy in my system with them. That's the main reason I've considered the Jolida (along with the digital inputs). My current disc spinner (McIntosh MCD-205) is a perfect fit, but lacks the digital inputs. Yes, I could simply add a DAC, but really want a 1-box solution as I'm running out of room in my rack.  Call it box downsizing. :-)

yakbob OP
487 posts
 
I appreciate the input guys and realize the "right" thing to do is go with a separate outboard DAC, but have decided to take chance on the Yamaha CD-S2100 which will add SACD capability to my system. I still have a stack of SACDs around from my time with the Shanling units.

The Jolida looks like it offers nice performance for the dollar, but the Yamaha ticked a lot of boxes for my needs. I'll report back once I've had some time with it.
yakbob OP
487 posts
 
OEM-Wheels,
Thanks for the heads up on the PrimaLuna. I would have certainly made an offer on that piece had I not already ordered the Yamaha unit. Timing is everything I suppose. Grrrr.

yakbob OP
487 posts
 
Thanks for the additional input runner. I think I would have been happy with the Jolida Fusion and did have some great coorespondance with one of their dealers. I will seek a demo of this unit in the near future to satisfy my "what if" curiosity.

For now, the Yamaha I purchased has landed and is singing along in my system. So far, I'm impressed, but cannot give a detailed review on the sound until my main amp comes back from repair. I'm getting by with a $150 craigslist "backup" amp which is muddy sounding and really bass heavy.

Operationally, the cd-s2100 is a beauty. Its nice to see a big name in the mid-fi/ home theater market get serious about audio again.


More to discover