@OP The build quality of the Esoteric K-05XD is in a different class to the McIntosh and PS machines and it's much better sounding than the McIntosh. I haven't a/b'd it with the PS, so can't comment there.
SACD Players
Hello,
New member here. I am looking to add an SACD player in order to play the DSD layer of SACD directly. Based on my research I have shortlisted PS Audio Direct Stream Memory player and McIntosh MCT500.
Option 1) I currently own McIntosh MA5300 which means I can use MCT500 with supplied DIN cable connected to MA5300’s DA1
Option 2) Purchase PS Audio Direct Stream Memory player and DirectStream DAC MK1 (Both discontinued)
From what I understand the memory buffering and Air Lens would make the media sound better. Whereas, I haven’t found many reviews on MCT500.
Both options would roughly cost the same. I am looking for the better sound. Which option is better? Any advice or insights would help.
Thank you,
SA
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- 52 posts total
Well, I’d say neither McIntosh nor PS Audio. As suggested, Esoteric (better a pair\combination of their SACD transport and SACD DAC like P-0X and D-0X) would be a good solution but price might be a bit out of budget. A Marantz SACD 30n mentioned by brge here highly likely would also be a choice for its ~$3000 and I’d vote for it. Try to listen to one at your local Hi-Fi store if possible; would not buy any component without your own audition. |
I've been looking at SACD for a long time, wasn't sure which way to go. For now, I've settled on the McIntosh 8950 and the MCT500. Full disclosure, I have not heard either yet. For me, it would make sense to use both McIntosh pieces so that you can use the proprietary connection to get full DSD. I would also look to upgrade the DA1 to the DA2, which you can do by swapping them out on your MA5300. When McIntosh comes out with the DA3, then you can upgrade again. For me, that is the reason why I'm going with McIntosh. Upgradeable DAC. |
OP, Have you thought of picking a used Sony/Pioneer bluray players from eBay and using that to extract DSF/DFF files from your SACD and then using an external DAC to play them? The initial outlay for the bluray player should be between $30-$100 depending on the condition. Then you can get a great DAC in your budget. The only part that needs a bit of time is to understand the process of how to rip the SACDs using the bluray player. It's not that difficult.
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- 52 posts total