Warm CD player for older CDs with digital glare?


If this was my main criteria for a CD player, possibly because I have a 2nd more highly resolved player for better recordings, what would you recommend?
When an upper midrange (or sometimes mid-midrange) note is strong on some redbook discs, it can go "over the top" and sound like glare, and I don't like that at all.

I have read that the Meridian 808.3 (or .2) is a warm player and that its aprodising filter (sp?) helps with "pre-ringing"
(is that what I'm hearing on vocals that soar into painful territory on redbook discs since the dawn of digital?)
So is the Meridian a candidate?

Someone mentioned Alex's big NWO player to me, or
the Ayon 5.

Thanks in advance.
rgs92

Showing 3 responses by bobheinatz

You might want to check out the Rega Isis. 5 years in development from a company that made its name in analog. Most audiophiles won't consider the Isis because of their reputation of budget value oriented gear. If you are looking to impress your audio buddy's buy a Esoteric but if you want music check out the Isis. Most high priced cdp's do have that digital glare like EMM Labs & Esoteric. The Isis has that analog sound, also check out Burmester belt driven 001 & 089.
I have only heard the w/o tubes Isis. There is a review on the tube version on Positive Feedback I think. Also check out the Tone Mag. review on the Isis. Most who have heard both liked the ss verison better. YMMV.
Rgs92,

I have heard both the Burmester 089 & 001 but in different systems. Both have the beltdrive systems that makes them unique and very analog sounding and quite smooth. Although
quite expensive the built quality is top notch. How they rate with the Isis I don't know. But all 3 will not have the typical digital glare. I believe there is a 089 for sale now on this site.