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Reference disc player...UDP 205 or Marantz?

Hey guys....
I've decided to take the plunge, and get my last reference disc player--at least for a very long time--and I'm looking for opinions on the subject.
I really wanted to get the Marantz SA-14S1, it sounds fantastic for sure, but I started to read all the glowing reviews on the Oppo UDP-205. Is it just hype, or the real thing? Is the Oppo really that rare piece of equipment that punches that far above its price? Who here has listened to the oppo and/or the Marantz? How do they compare? 
Thanks! 
jonasandezekiel

Showing 2 responses by pokey77

pokey77
1,269 posts
 
@jonasandezekielI am an Oppo 105 owner and have been for five years; basically since it was released. So, I may be biased.

I heard the exact Marantz player you make mention of. It was in a system of Luxman 590AX II integrated, Marten Django L speakers, Frey wiring, and set up well (a little over $20K). The Marantz was definitely the weak link in that system. It was switched out for a Luxman D-o6u. It was definitely much better but still not lively enough for my taste. Though the Marantz is $2,500, it is not reference by a very long shot. Not trying to be disrespectful.

I've owned a few Marantz players and what was mentioned above I find resonates with me: the Marantz players are smooth sounding but roll of the sound up top. For me, that is a deal breaker.

Best of luck in your search.
pokey77
1,269 posts
 
@tomcarr
@jonasandezekeil

This is the best choice. I've owned a number of "mid-fi" CD  players and the Oppo 105 beats them all, including the Cambridge Audio 840C; and it wasn't even close for me. The Oppo was much better across the board. I have not heard the 205 yet but have read it is supposed to be a bit better. Please also realize that none of these players mentioned are reference.

I've heard the Marantz  SA-14S1. Though the word reference is used in the title, it is in no way reference. I have not heard the Marantz in my system, but it was pretty uninspiring in the Marten/Luxman system I auditioned it in a few months ago. The Marantz house sound, to me, is smooth but rolled off; no shimmer, sparkle, snap. Not for me. I've had two or three Marantz players; as a side note, all had to have the disc mechanism replaced.
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