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  3. 153218-118236

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 3 responses by soix

soix
8,822 posts
 
Well, I’m in the separate DAC camp.  By requiring the DAC to be internal you’re limiting your choices significantly.  For example, as a vinyl guy you may like the sound of one of the growing number of R2R NOS DACs out there.  You won’t find those in a CD spinner, at least that I’m aware of.  I think Hifi Heaven offers a trial period where you could try something like the Metrum Onyx to see if this technology floats your boat.  People who love R2R NOS DACs LOVE them.  Add a reclocker like the Empirical Audio Syncro Mesh or Wyred4Sound Remedy and that’d still leave you with a nice chunk of change for a really nice digital cable (or two) before you reach the price of the Ruby KI.  R2R DACs don’t play SACDs, but after hearing the DAC you may not care anymore.  Just another thought.  Best of luck. 
soix
8,822 posts
 
@dprincipato — the Schiit Modi is their $99 entry-level DAC.  My advice — if the Modi was the equal or slightly better than your Yammy, don’t listen to any of their better DACs or you’ll never like listening to your Yamaha ever again once you hear what’s possible.  It ain’t a subtle difference. 

@skyscraper — I took a deeper look and I think you’re leaving a lot of performance on the table — especially considering the quality of the rest of your rig — fronting your digital music with a $1000 CD player.  I’d strongly suggest doing an in-home trial of a good DAC just to see what you may be missing.  Here’s one potential option — Hifi Heaven offers a return policy if you buy a DAC from them, so other than maybe a little shipping cost there’s no risk to you.  You should try a Metrum Onyx R2R NOS DAC and prepare to have your world rocked.  My bet is you won’t return it.  Just something to noodle over during the holidays. 
soix
8,822 posts
 
The extra cables to connect it in would have to be expensive and a complete waste of money when you don’t need them with an integrated CD player/DAC. That being said I would like to hear what that Metro Onyx R2R sounds like.

@skyscraper — Cables need not be expensive.  All you’d need is a digital cable with the analog interconnects you use with the Marantz, and for purposes of auditioning a DAC you could get a 1m Apogee Wyde Eye cable from Amazon for $40 that is a very good cable (I’ve used it for years and it has beat out more expensive cables).  Do yourself a favor and demo an Onyx — again HiFi Heaven has a return policy to do this.  At the very least it’ll be very enlightening for a relatively small cost outlay, but again my bet is you won’t return it.  Again, best of luck in whatever you decide.  

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