Don't use a mat, its a different kind of transport than what you're used to. PS Audio put a computer CD rom type of transport in the one you have. If I remember correctly, it reads multiple passes and then sends the signal to a buffer. So, you're not really listening to the CD in real time. Using the matt should make no difference in SQ. And it sounds like the drive doesn't leave you enough clearance for the matt to fit.
Recommendations for a mat for the PS Audio PWT
I have a PS Audio PerfectWave Transport. I have found in the past with other transports that a cd mat helps to improve the sound. I have several different cd mats. My favorite is a mat that I purchased from Herbies Audio Lab. However none of the mats that i currently have seem to work with the PWT. Whenever I play a cd with a mat, the PWT makes a lot of noise - a buzzing sound. The cd also gets very warm to touch once I open the tray. I am surprized the Herbie's mat does not work because it is just a thin layer of silicone-based viscoelastic that has adhesive that you stick onto the cd. Anotherwards, the mat is not loose on the cd.
I do feel I need to use something that work with the PWT. Otherwise I feel I may end up damaging the machine. Would appreciate any recommendations from folks who have successfully used a mat with the PS Audio PWT. Thanks
I do feel I need to use something that work with the PWT. Otherwise I feel I may end up damaging the machine. Would appreciate any recommendations from folks who have successfully used a mat with the PS Audio PWT. Thanks