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Toroidal vs. Non-toroidal Transformers

I am an experienced audiophile, but am unsure as to how much weight should be given to the presence of a toridal transformer in a CD player. I am comparing the Marantz SA-15S2 to the Denon 100th Anniversary SACD player. With the cases open, the main difference I note is that the Marantz has a toroidal transformer, and the Denon does not. I am one who buys all of his gear on-line, sight unseen, and so design and parts quality are important to me (they would be important to me anyway).

I believe that design and parts quality have a direct relationship to performance. I am not one to readily accept the advice of: "Well, just listen to the players." I suppose that if I listen long enough, I might end up seeing the positive points of almost any piece of gear--and such is why I always marvel at the suggestions of "200" or "500" hours of "break-in". I would rather make an informed initial decision, as well-designed components with quality parts--and good weight and build--have rarely disappoined me. I welcome any relevant comments.
gtortorella

Showing 5 responses by gtortorella

gtortorella OP
17 posts
 
These responses are very informative. I, too, think exactly that: Denon players are a tad "screechy" in the highs. This term, "screechy," is an excellent way to describe it.

I have very sensitive ears, and I have posed this question because I already have the highly-regarded SA-15S2. I have had it for a week now. At first, I was very impressed with its performance--lush, dynamic, smooth. In the last couple of days, though, I am a bit puzzled by its sound. I cannot listen for more than 45 minutes or so, and I am trying to figure out why. It is bothering my ears some, and I am wondering if there is some type of problem in the highs. I am now taking a break from listening to it, as I am trying to rest my ears.

Also, the drawer opened once unexpectedly. I am 99% certain I did not hit the remote (or other button), and so I was puzzled by that, too. My previous unit, the SA8004, did not seem to bother my ears, and I do not remember the tray coming out unexpectedly.

gtortorella OP
17 posts
 
I am well aware of the ill effects of op-amp output stages. The problem is that so many players--even multi-thousand dollar units--have op-amp output stages or op-amps elsewhere in the design. Indeed, a discrete output stage will always sound better. Though, this HDAM thing in the Marantz units is pretty good. Some say its an op-amp, others say it is not. I have yet to figure out what, exactly, it is. In any case, is sounds better than whatever "OPA" three or four digit number (i.e. 627, 2132, 2134, and on and on) is offered by Burr Brown and the like.

A discrete output stage requires real design skills, and an op-amp is an inexpensive shortcut. This trend shows not the slightest sign of being reversed.
gtortorella OP
17 posts
 
I forgot to add that I am hesitant about adding yet another component to the signal chain, i.e. a DAC. While if I spend a bunch of money, I may get one with a discrete output stage, I may then perhaps introduce other issues or problems. At minimum, I have added a whole other component--with its own an input and out section--and another length of cable.
gtortorella OP
17 posts
 
Regarding the G08.2, this is an interesting comment. Even the G06.2, at $3,500 MSRP, would be out of my reach.

With regard to the sound of my SA-15S2 (and its effects), I think I have determined the nature of the problem. My ears seemed somewhat "pluggy," and so I applied a few treatments of Murine, and my ears feel much better. Not a whole lot of wax was removed, but my ears seem back to normal now. I have listened briefly, as I have been busy, and have sensed no negative effect upon my ears. I will now return to evaluating the performance of the 15S2.
gtortorella OP
17 posts
 
Indeed, Ayre gear would seem to be of the highest caliber. Charles Hansen despises op-amps.
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