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My Last CD player

I like my vinyl but digital has its own set of benefits. When my last CD player fell of its perch, I move to streaming audio.  Overall, I have been happy with this decision.  I did notice that lately, a number of posters have been claiming that CD is “better” than streaming.  I figured that most of these were flat earthers. I recently had the opportunity to listen to a “new generation” CD player on a friends system.  I am not sure I would say it was better but it was different and in a very good way.  As I have an extensive CD collection, this set me off to evaluate a new CD player for my system .... at my age presumably the last I will own.  I have identified a few different used players that seem to check the short list boxes: Audio Research cd 7 SE, Ayon cd10 Signature II Ultimate, Ayon cd35 Signature I and Luxman 

D-06u.  I am auditioning the Ayon cd10 at home .... smooth, natural, musical, holographic image, but light on dynamics and soundstage. Anyone have experience with these players?  Any other suggestions?

chilli42

Showing 1 response by socalml528

socalml528's avatar
socalml528
150 posts
 
I've had the latest McIntosh MCD85 for a little over a month now.  It just gets better and better with hours played.  I can't believe how good SACDs and regular CDs are sounding.  It also, has the ability to (firewire/usb or optical) a connection from a laptop or network device and leverage the MCD85 32 bit DAC.

I have it connected to the amp using the balanced (xlr) outputs; which also helps. However, I think at the price point there will be some less expensive competitive alternatives like the Bryston or top-line Marantz; I'm sure there's many others.

I still prefer vinyl, but like @chilli42 I have a CD collection that I want to leverage and also want to use streaming input from time to time.  The MCD85 seems to be making this plan a reality without compromise.  

One thing to note; like vinyl (betterecords.com discussion) some CDs just sound more engaging than others.  Some CDs rival the depth of vinyl, while others are a notch below similar vinyl content.  Must be the sound engineer?
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