I would put it this way - the 740C is slightly better than the the Cambridge 650C (or older 640C for that matter), and on a little better than the Cambridge DacMagic that has the same DAC and processing as the 740C, but not as good a case or power source as either CDP. Both are good bargains, particularly if you are after detail with decent timing. And my experience is they show well when placed in systems with electronics, speakers and wires costing a lot more. Whether they both deserve "Class B" rating is purely a subjective judgement on the part of Stereophile's staff. I tend to agree with them more often than not in their appraisals, but there is an occasional skunk at their garden party.
Stereophile Class Recommendations for Cambridge
I took a look at the latest Stereophile Recommended Component List today and saw something that I consider quite interesting. In the digital player section under the Class B rating, Cambridge Audio has two players that made it; the 740c and the new 650c.
I've never heard either, but read plenty of reviews and comments on the 740, so I know its held in high regard. That said, if a company is offering a number of cdp's at various price points, shouldn't, in a perfect world, the performance of a product get better as you go up the line?
Maybe my interpretation is wrong, but what does it mean if they're both considered good enough to be in Class B? Do they sound the same? Is it time to upgrade the 740c? Or is the 650 performing way above its price range.
At the end of the day, I know the proof is in the listening, but I was just wondering how everyone perceives these ratings by the "esteemed" Stereophile Magazine. i know that I use it, along with other review mags, at least as a guide to determine what I wish to audition.
Please share
I've never heard either, but read plenty of reviews and comments on the 740, so I know its held in high regard. That said, if a company is offering a number of cdp's at various price points, shouldn't, in a perfect world, the performance of a product get better as you go up the line?
Maybe my interpretation is wrong, but what does it mean if they're both considered good enough to be in Class B? Do they sound the same? Is it time to upgrade the 740c? Or is the 650 performing way above its price range.
At the end of the day, I know the proof is in the listening, but I was just wondering how everyone perceives these ratings by the "esteemed" Stereophile Magazine. i know that I use it, along with other review mags, at least as a guide to determine what I wish to audition.
Please share
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