2. digital
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Sorry, a question about the Sony SCDXA5400ES.

Here it is: I'm looking for a new cd player, only redbook, no sacd needed. My budget is a max of $1500, new or used. So who has heard this thing? Who can say (who actually HEARD it) that it will better most, if not all other players in my price range? Is the hype so? Does it currently make boutique brands obsolete(in the lower price range)?
jtnicolosi

Showing 2 responses by strateahed

strateahed
305 posts
 
Jetter, searching for a direct comparison, I had the same experience. I previously owned the Sony 5400, and got an Oppo 83SE to audition. Verdict IMHO: for 2 channel stereo the Sony 5400 is better. Oppo Digital also has a great return policy. A well-known modder agrees ... the Sony is superior to the Oppo 83SE in stock form. I elected to get a modified Oppo 83 (non-SE) and sell the Sony. It's about the same cost (~$1,500), PLUS it's one less box - as the Oppo BDP-83 replaces both the Sony and my old Oppo 980H.
strateahed
305 posts
 
Joeyboynj, it's the basic mod from Dan @ Modwright Instruments ($950). Check his website for more details. Based on very positive prior experience, I would have gone with Paul Weitzel @ TRL; but he stopped doing Oppo mods for some reason.

FYI, if you're considering RAM, compare Kyle's detailed mod list to Doug Jesse @ ASI Tek ... pretty much dead on. That is, ASI Tek appears to do basically the same thing as RAM, for less money. I believe Doug and Kyle worked together under RAM before going separate ways. I have the ASI Tek modded Oppo 980H ... overall an excellent machine, but not quite the top performer in my system.
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