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SLOT LOADING CD MECHANISMS - DO THE DAMAGE CD'S?

Of recent, I have been considering the purchase of a new CD transport (no DAC). There are several that have caught my attention; - - one in particular is made by AUDIOLAB. The one factor that leaves me "hanging", conceptually speaking, is the fact that AUDIOLAB exclusively uses "slot loading" CD mechanisms.
I have owned a couple of good quality CD players employing this type mechanism, and in both cases, eventually discovered marring to the playing surface of the CD. I am fanatic about proper preservation of CD playing surfaces. I certainly don’t want more CD’s ending up in the garbage can. (and I don’t like polishing, making a bad situation, worse !)

In turn, I have read many articles and customer reports complaining of the same issue. I consider AUDIOLAB products to be of a quality and performance level that leaves me somewhat dumbfounded as to why they would employ the use of a questionable mechanism that has so many historic issues.
So, what have they done that would be any different than other companies using this concept? I can’t imagine that they would invest the R&D money to develop their own proprietary mechanism.
Anyone out there that can validify the credibility (or lack of) AUDIOLAB’S use of "slot loading ?. Direct experience would help the most.
axpert

Showing 4 responses by bkeske

bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,597 posts
 

@sfxjura 

The Audiolab 6000CDT has a nice felt type surround at the loading slot. So, unless you really try to put a CD in poorly aligned with the slot itself, no protective tape or similar should be needed.

I’ve had mine for a while, and although it was a concern for me, not really any longer. Just be careful, and if you remember to do so, take a micro fiber cloth to the CD and wipe it before inserting.

bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,597 posts
 

Interesting thread I just happened to see a couple days ago, as I just took delivery of an Audiolab 6000CDT. Trying to stay within a certain price point, it was really between the Audiolab and a Pro-Ject transport, also slot loading. To be honest, that concerned me when I was researching what to buy, but decided to move forward regardless based on the reviews I read.

One thing is certain, this transport sounds very very good, and along with my Denafrips DAC, a very nice combination.

For years I used CD’s in my slot loading car players, and really didn’t think twice about it, so……

Right now I’m thrilled with this transport for the $. I can always buy CD cleaner/polisher if it becomes an issue in terms of doing any real damage, but I have a feeling it won’t be a problem regardless.

bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,597 posts
 

@sfxjura 

I have two Belles MB-200 Mono amps, and a Belles Aria Signature preamp.

Yes, in all likliehood the Denafrips will be much better than most all ‘built in’ DAC’s. I prefer a separate DAC as the technology can change quickly over time, so why pay for one within an integrated amp?

 

bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,597 posts
 

@sfxjura 

I have Aries II, and think it’s great for the money. Very detailed and clean to my ears. Some call it ‘analog like’. Maybe, but not like my TT and LP’s. Nice soundstage and imaging. It replaced a PS Audio Digital Link 3. I like it better than the PS Audio, still a very good DAC for its age, which is now in my bedroom system. 

Schiit makes nice stuff too, but I’ll tell you, right now, you can easily sell the Denafrips for what you paid on the used market. They not only hold their value, but at times, increase in value.

Just something to think about if you want to try something else in the future.

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