2. digital
  3. 1004734236

Keeping PT combo, or buy new CDP???

Hello there. It's been a while since I posted here last time. Looking forward to holiday season, my upgrading bug is biting me again. I now own Perp Tech P1/P3 + Monolithic + Audio Magic ref I2S, and mod'd Pioneer 525 DVDP.
Partially because PT's SOCS is slow to emerge, I started to search the next step. Having fairly good sounding (I think) speakers and tube amp, front end has been always my weakest link. It's not that I feel miserable, but maybe just obsession, I want to upgrade the entrance of the signal. The search came up with Cary's new D306/200, with LOTS of positive review and comments here and there despite that Cary has never been a digital company. I know it's VERY expensive, but considering no need for a good digital IC, one less power cord, space, and assuming I can live with it for a long long time with the better sound, I think it's worth it. Selling the PT combo set may fetch about the third of the cost.
Having said that, I am still wondering whether Cary 306/200 will be a huge improvement. I know that I have to hear for myself, and I will, but I would like some insight from those experienced proficients in terms of sound as well as reliability and service of both manufacturers, or other recommendations. I listen mostly to acoustic (piano, violin, organ, etc.), with sometimes choral or vocal music. Thank you in advance. Ken
khokugo

Showing 1 response by subaruguru

subaruguru
1,376 posts
 
I struggled for most of the last year with a new middle and back end, trying various front ends. Dismissed the ARCAM, Bel Canto, and a couple of others, then stumbled upon the Electrocompaniet emc-1, esp in MkII guise. An amazing front end. Once in a while you can find a nearly new emc-1 for sale here around $2-2.4k. A GREAT deal. I was able to get a couple of thet new 24/192 DAC upgrade kits pretty cheap; the concensus is strong that this improvement is strong.
Just couldn't get happy with Planets or Genkis, either; never checked Meridien or Cary, though. Good luck, and try out an emc-1 if you can borrow one. Stunning bass, full mids, detailed top with NO glare or fatiguing digital artifacts (HOORAY!), and has outstanding PRaT. Awright, enough already.... Good luck.
More to discover