need opinions on cdp with built in volume control up to $2000


I have a couple CD players with built in volume control that I'm very satisfied with but both need service, which may be a simple matter or may not.  Getting service is becoming a real burden though and I would like opinions about other possible options.  The players are a Consonance Droplet 5.0 and a Raysonic 228.   I also have a Modwright Oppo BDP83SE with the tube power supply and had a Cambridge Audio 851C.  The Oppo does a fine job on SACD and DVD-A but is a noticeable step down in sound quality from the Consonance and the Raysonic on redbook cd.  The Cambridge was a further step down and so was sold.  I never use preamps, including passive, and all my sources have built in volume controls so that's what I'm looking for.  I value detail and transparency as well as a focused soundstage more than other qualities.  I  also prefer integrated cd players rather than separate DAC/transports so please, recommendations that follow this.  I prefer to spend about a $1000 or so on the used market but could possibly go up to $2000 if absolutely necessary.  Present options I see include the Classe CDP-202, Meridian G08, Resolution Audio Opus 21, EAR Acute, and a few Cary models.  Opinions based on experience, especially compared to the Consonance or Raysonic, would be greatly appreciated. 
lcherepkai

Showing 3 responses by pehare

any of the Cary CD players w/built in volume control but I warn that they all eventually need new laser drives which is not hard to replace yourself.  306/200, 303/300, 303/200 and some of the newer models they all sound great.
One of my local friends has a CD500 and it sounds great in his rig (Cary 300sei and Coincident speakers) but I've never heard it in my system.  He's had the laser replaced once too.  That's probably the player I would go for if mine croaks.  I have the 303/300 now and always use it in solid state output mode (not thru the tube section) as I feel it sounds better that way in my setup.  Not too many choices out there - let us know what you wind up with and good luck.
The solid state output sounds more dynamic w/my present amp and clearer.  I noticed it w/my present amp but not other tube amps I had where I would often run it in tube output for some recordings.  I owned the 306/200 prior to this and it had no tube output.  Prior to that a 303/100.  Great players but older than what I have now.  I think the CD500 would be a great choice and you can get the laser units from Cary or ebay if necessary.  Soix brings up a great point but I'm just too lazy and poor anymore to go that direction.