Small Form-Factor CD Player/Transport
I'm looking to see what's out there (and available in the US) as far as smaller CD units are concerned. Transport or Player, preferably front-loading, in that c.$1000USD range. Here's a short list of what I've stumbled across, thus far:
- Pro-Ject CD Box DS*
- Teac PD-301-X
- Rega Apollo (but this is top-load, unfortunately)
@charles1dad I thought I had read specifically in one of the threads on AG about this DAC that Project's I2S is only compatible with Project gear. |
The problem as you noted is the lack of an industry standard protocol. For example my understanding is that Pro-Ject is proprietary and only seems compatible with its sibling DACs. If true then regrettable. Such an excellent sounding CD transport should have as much universal utility with other brands as is possible. I use my Pro-Ject RS2T via Spdif to my DAC and it’s splendid. Charles |
I think there is a sea change with CD Transports brought about by their I2S data output and DACs that can accept it. If there was a universal I2S format that ensured compatibility between all transports and DACs things would be much easier. I am looking at Pro-Ject and Heed CD transports with I2S to connect to my new Holo Audio Spring 3 v2 DAC. |
If you can find one, this is a cool little unit - Onkyo DV-SP205FX SACD player. I think they are Japan only and will need a power transformer. I think I paid less than $300 including the transformer for mine. Maybe not and "audiophile" device, but it sounds great in my 2nd system and will play SACDs. |
The Cyrus Cdt...compact, sounds great. Yes, a bit deep dimension wise, but not very wide. A far cry from the full size audio lab it replaced. Freed up some space atop my audio credenza. Better yet, I got it brand new, $999...$300 off! I also use my Marantz hdcd1 as a transport. It is 12 inches by 12 inches. Also sounds great. |
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The Cyrus looks great, but just physically too deep, atop from being over twice the budget. Aesthetically, I'd lean more towards the Pro-Ject or Teac. Question with the Pro-ject: In the DS line, it doesn't appear you can order the CD units with the "wood" side panels. However, there are other boxes (DACs, etc.) that have the exact same chassis, but are available with side panels. Am I seeing that correctly? Oh, and under budget is perfectly fine! 1's and 0's are mostly the same, given my current listening situation/room/system. Aesthetics, design and functionality are the more important factors. |
Well I can vouch that Pro-Ject is committed to the “box” small/compact form factor. I haven’t heard any of their front loading CD components but they have very good word of mouth reputation. I own their top loading CD transport (RS2T) and it’s genuinely fabulous sounding. If the Pro-Ject front loading models come even close to the RS2T you’ll have a very fine sounding component. Charles
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