My beloved CDP finally bit the dust


Time for a  new front end.The laser and transport mechanism was designed as an entire unit,easily replaceable in my Vincent S6.Except the unit is no longer available.I've enjoyed it for the past nine years and I will miss it terribly.
I've got a Cambridge CXC along with a Parasound Zdac v2 on the way as a replacement.I don't stream,just enjoy physical media for now.Both are returnable if one or both don't work out.I didn't want to spend $$$ an end up in the same situation a few years down the road.I could up the budget but I'm not sure it's necessary.I'm hoping for a similar smooth sound with detail that's not harsh.
So what do you guys and gals think?Am I on the right track?My other components are LTA MZ2,Aric Audio Transcend Push Pull amp,Tekton Impact Monitors,four subs.Blues and rock,acoustic and electric is my preference for music.Any suggestions for 'plan B' components are welcome.
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Showing 5 responses by mesch

For CD playback I and I owned the CXC I would keep it and look into the Mirror Audio Trubadour III DAC. A NOS DAC having a tube output stage. I don't yet own this DAC but it likely will be my next purchase for my main system. $1500. 
I was looking into the Border Patrol. I believe the tube output is a buffer stage, not an all tube output stage as with the Mirror Audio. If I am wrong in my recollection, I apologize a priori. 

I agree with jl35 that there are many modest cost DACs that would mate well with the CXC at modest cost. Also providing greater flexibility than a stand alone CD player. Also as a alternative to buying new, there are always available some older well built DACs that may lack the best (or any) USB implementation which can be had at low cost. 
Congrats on your purchase! I likely will also purchase the Tubadour. Did you buy the basic model or upgraded one? 
Thanks for the continued feedback. I remain interested int the Tubadour, not sure when I will pull the trigger.