I also bought a new T-Drive when it first came out and enjoyed it for many years till it stopped reading discs (but sold the companion DAC the very same year). It was quite nice -- sweet, dimensional sound, but not quite as extended as others. With a new laser mechanism and clock, it would be a good buy at $500.
Replaced it with an Empirical-modded Sony that provided a nice upgrade, especially regarding detail. Then got a DIY-zone CD-Pro2m based on the Philips transport mechanism that many expensive transports use. It's really good -- deeper and tighter bass and very musical (there's one for sale at Audio Circle -- no affiliation). I still use it, though more often use a red-wine modded Olive music server -- just as good and all my collection without getting out of my chair (unfortunately Vinnie doesn't mod them anymore).
BTW, I've heard the Altmann (compared to several other DACs in a local shoot-out) and thought it was very good.
Replaced it with an Empirical-modded Sony that provided a nice upgrade, especially regarding detail. Then got a DIY-zone CD-Pro2m based on the Philips transport mechanism that many expensive transports use. It's really good -- deeper and tighter bass and very musical (there's one for sale at Audio Circle -- no affiliation). I still use it, though more often use a red-wine modded Olive music server -- just as good and all my collection without getting out of my chair (unfortunately Vinnie doesn't mod them anymore).
BTW, I've heard the Altmann (compared to several other DACs in a local shoot-out) and thought it was very good.