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Need recommendation for new CD/SACD player

I bought an Oppo 981 secondhand a while back to test the waters of SACD/DVD-Audio. I will say that the SACD sounds pretty good on this player and of the two DVD-Audio discs I have the sound is ok. The redbook audio is absolutely terrible, which I am finding out is a major weakness of this player. My old Technics CD from 1992 sounded better.

I am now in the market for a new SACD/CD player. DVD-Audio is not important and in fact I would like to leave DVD out of the equation all together if possible. So I am here to ask what are users opinions on the best CD/SACD player for under $2000? I have been looking at the Marantz, Denon, and Sony ES models. Also, do you think if I get a model for $1000 that I should add an external DAC for the RBCD? Is there a model that would be great standalone (even if I need to spend a bit more money?). Lastly since I think the SACD and DVD-Audio of the Oppo is decent, should I just spend a grand on a decent DAC (like Benchmark) and use that setup for a while? My other equip for reference is an old Carver C-1 preamp (the next upgrade), a Macintosh MC 250 amp, and Klipsch Heresey speakers, I also have a modded Technics 1210 coming soon. Thanks for the advice.
jlc76

Showing 1 response by reubent

reubent
7,072 posts
 
Any of the Oppo players mod'd by Ric Shultz at EVS (www.tweakaudio.com) are very good CD, HDCD, SACD and DVD video players. I use an EVS level-2 mod'd Oppo 970 for both the DVD player in my HT system and also as the CD/SACD player in my 2 channel rig. It replaced a nice $3000+ dedicated cd player and gave up little/nothing in the sonic department. I'm not thrilled with the mid-fi looks (although the 970 is much better looking than the 980 and 981 IMHO), but it is a highly competent player in one slim-line package and it does everything well.

Enjoy,

TIC
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