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New CD player or new external DAC ?

I have been looking for some options for a decent upgrade to my 14 year old Arcam MCD player. Since the CD player actually works, I'm wondering if it would be a better option to just keep it as a transport and get a good quality DAC. Would this provide an improvement ? Or is an improvement in the transport required as well.

I was looking at some $600-$900 Cd player options such as the Marantz 6400 or the Cambridge Audio 351 or 651. But then started to turn my focus to DAC and am looking at the Bryston BDA1 (can get a VERY good deal on a a store demo...full warranty), and thinking it would be worth the extra money IF it will be a signifcant upgrade to my stand alone Arcam MCD. Would this transport and DAC be a match ? And with a DAC, if I have future flexibiity as well. And if I can get just as good but less expensive, I would consider that as well.

Thoughts, comments ???
dallyd31

Showing 1 response by glenfihi

glenfihi
525 posts
 
The future in audio gear seems to be one that may require a DAC. Take your cd player to the dealer and ask them to hook it up to the BDA -1 and hear it for yourself. If no dramatic difference and you yet want to upgrade, get a cd player that includes inputs for other devices like a computer, cd player etc. Player like the OPPO 105 and some Marantz units.

Just for a lark if you do get the BDA, and I would if you think the deal if good enough regardless of your cd player. Buy the Emotiva DAC and compare to the BDA, you get easily return the Emotiva if it is not all that.
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