Mephisto II, Sim Moon Eclipse How do they compare?


I'm curious, What are your thought's on these two players? I am looking to get a dedicated CD player (currently using a Pioneer DVD player). I want something High End, but I don't want to have to spend $6000-$8000 to get something either. So for this reason I have been looking at used players. The two that really caught my eye are the Sim Moon Eclipse, and Audiomeca Mephisto II. How do these players stack up? What are your thoughts? Any input will be most appreciated.
hifigator

Showing 5 responses by camboinc

Hifigator,
I think you have two fine choices there. I currently have the latest Sim Moon Eclipse. In my sytem the Sim bested the Accuphase DP65V, Wadia 850 and Audio Aero Cap Mk II. I have not heard the Mephisto but based on others comments, (lakefrontroad in particular as he has had lots of amazing gear) you can't go wrong. I expect that the Sim is a bit more resolving than players like EMC UP, Mephisto and the AA Cap, so it depends on what your system sounds like. If you buy right on audiogon, you could easily try each player and keep the one you prefer. Gotta love audiogon for that! If you are curious, the rest of my system is Hovland HP100 MC, Krell FPB600, Eggleston Andras, VPI scout JMW9 with Transfiguration Spirit mk3 MC, cabling is Harmonix speaker cable and ic, transparent reference with xl, valhalla, pc's are electraglide fat man, elrod eps2 and shunyata python. dedicated 20 amp circuits (3 of 'em). By the way, my other two cents, the Sim is the best CDP under 7k- topped only by more money like EMM Labs (I have heard the Meitner gear and am amazed) and probably the 861 with GNSC mods. Good luck and happy hunting.
Brian
Hifigator,
on the sim- try to find one with the HDCD chip (older version) for around $2400-2700, the new one for $3400 or so. I'm not sure if the upgrade is significantly different sonically as I have owned both. The older one requires a single 75ohm bnc to bnc interconnect to bypass the HDCD chip. It is absolutely necessary to reap the benefits of this fine player. I had a fairly inexpensive Sonoran plateau (cactus i think it was)bnc interconnect that sounded fantastic ($200 new direct from the manufacturer on the internet). i tried the inexpensive but well rated stereovox HDXV cable ($75 retail) and the sonoran killed it. As you saw from my current rig, i spend money on cabling when it works. i have tried lots and lots of stuff but in the case of the sim the reasonably priced sonoran did the trick. If you need any more info, jst repost or email me. Best of luck to you buddy!
Brian
Hifigator,
The power supply does make a difference- a slightly tighter, fuller sound. However,I'm not so sure the soundstaging is quite as open with the PSX and HDCD chip removed. I think the way to go is buy an older version with the standard power supply. I just saw one go this week- it listed at $2000.00. In my opinion a great deal! Good luck.
HIfigator,
I would go with the PSX if you find a good deal. But dont let it keep you from getting the Sim. Jump on one if you see another deal like the last. Watch out for chucklehead Frank- he is really opinionated and has bose all over the house. Well, with the exception of that room with the Kharma Exquisites, Meitner, Tenor, SME...
Gator,
good luck and let me know when you score one. meanwhile, i'll keep hoity toity frank in line. enjoy the music, bro. bri