@donpepe
I too have a Cambridge 851C with SR Black and still feel for the money it’s a fine player, but that being said I just picked up an RME ADI-2 fs DAC and it’s hands down better, and not just a different sound. Bought new for $1099 with a 30 day return but I’m keeping it. Right out of the box it bettered the 851C. Some say this DAC is a little bright or cold but I don’t get that at all and just guessing their system or room is the culprit. I found it compared to the 851C more open, much cleaner on the top and the bottom edge more extended.The RME definitely doesn’t soften or roll off the top but many CD’s that I could play through I can now. I’m listening through full CD’s again either spinning or streaming and not bouncing all over the place. Point is it’s an outstanding piece and it’s priced silly low for what it does and Made in Germany. Purchased mine from BH Photo and had in a few days. Running coax and balanced out and didn’t even bothered with the stock power cord. I’d keep your 851C and use as a transport. The clocks in the RME are probably equal to your Synchro Mesh so that might not make any difference. If you like it... look at all the money you might save.
I too have a Cambridge 851C with SR Black and still feel for the money it’s a fine player, but that being said I just picked up an RME ADI-2 fs DAC and it’s hands down better, and not just a different sound. Bought new for $1099 with a 30 day return but I’m keeping it. Right out of the box it bettered the 851C. Some say this DAC is a little bright or cold but I don’t get that at all and just guessing their system or room is the culprit. I found it compared to the 851C more open, much cleaner on the top and the bottom edge more extended.The RME definitely doesn’t soften or roll off the top but many CD’s that I could play through I can now. I’m listening through full CD’s again either spinning or streaming and not bouncing all over the place. Point is it’s an outstanding piece and it’s priced silly low for what it does and Made in Germany. Purchased mine from BH Photo and had in a few days. Running coax and balanced out and didn’t even bothered with the stock power cord. I’d keep your 851C and use as a transport. The clocks in the RME are probably equal to your Synchro Mesh so that might not make any difference. If you like it... look at all the money you might save.