I have an affinity for vinyl but own quite a few Redbook CDs & as many of them are not available on vinyl I wanted a fairly inexpensive single-box player.
I had previously owned a handful of mid-priced players (Ayon CD-32, Bel Canto CD-1, Roksan Caspian etc...) so was happy to purchase a unit around the same performance considering what I wanted to pay.
I read some favourable reviews on the Primare CD32; in particular Brian Damkroger’s review in Stereophile -
http://www.stereophile.com/content/primare-cd32-cd-player#dGHxWtbVZlew7LRX.97 (I know many reviews are tinged with bias/affiliations) but still felt intrigued as even the RRP was quite low.
I managed to negotiate a very good deal on an ex dem unit which arrived yesterday. All I can say is anyone looking for an inexpensive single-box player needs to audition this. Everything in Brian’s review is correct!
I’ve heard high-end players & factoring the used market value of the CD32 (when they are available) & its performance, then this is the bargain of the decade. This really is a seriously good player.
I use a Pass XP-20 pre, Gamut M250i mono blocks & Tannoy DC10T speakers.
I just wanted to share my experience for those looking for a top single-box player minus the top price...& perhaps to offer hope in the credibility in some reviews!
I have no affiliation with Primare or Brian!
