Upgrading a CD/SACD player with integral DAC


I’ve described my system on site before and it was pointed out the CD/SACD player was the weak link in the system. I’m not in disagreement, and would like to start researching an upgrade that would be commensurate with the rest of the system.

Here is what I have at present:

Marantz SA 8005 CD player with integral DAC
VPI Classic 2 turntable with an Ortofon 2M Black cartridge
Luxman L507 uX Mk2 Integrated Amplifier
Magico A3 speakers
Hydra Denali 6000S Power Conditioner

I have only Redbook CD’s, no SACDs but it would be nice to retain that capability. It would also be nice to retain an integral DAC, although at a higher price point maybe you would advise on getting a separate DAC. I’d rather avoid doing that if possible, as that would mean having to add more cables that would detract from the overall budget. But let me know what you think on that score. I have no plans to add any other components, or to stream music, so that doesn’t need to enter the equation. I listen to mostly fifties jazz and Rock ’n Roll and R&B, among other things, if that is at all relevant. I want to buy new, and not Chinese manufactured products.

So what CD players would you recommend looking into that would be similar in quality to the rest of the system. And what if any sonic improvements might I look forward to with your recommended upgrade. I purposely did not mention price point as I don’t know what price point would put the CD player into the performance range of the rest of the system components. You were all were very helpful to me choosing the rest of the system components, especially the amp and speakers. So I’d appreciate, and am looking forward to your recommendations and guidance on this selection. If there’s any more information you need, please let me know. Thanks

Mike


skyscraper

Showing 8 responses by jafant

skyscraper


when perusing Amazon for SACD titles, type the artist or album of interest, followed by DSD. This usually will find the SACD version.

Joni Mitchell's catalog first received the HDCD treatment around 1999/2000 remasters. Keep me posted on which cd/sacd titles that really shine via Ruby.


Happy Listening!

skyscraper


Thank You for sharing your impressions and thoughts. Enjoy your new player for me.


Happy Listening!

skyscraper

Nice score! I am looking forward in reading about the comparison between Ruby and 8005.  Happy Listening!

skyscraper
Happy New Year!  Which spinners are on your short-list?
Happy Listening!
skyscraper

I am looking forward in reading about the players auditioned. Have fun!

Happy Listening!

skyscraper


My pleasure Mike.  There has never been a better time to purchase a CD/SACD player. At present, Marantz has the Ruby KI plus SA-10 Reference spinners.  I could not obtain an audition from either player here in the southeast U.S. I purchased an Ayre DX-5 universal which has superb CD and SACD playback.


Happy Listening!

skyscraper


If you enjoy the Marantz house sound, simply move up to a model that incorporates SACD playback. There are some very fine models from this company.


Happy Listening!