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what CD player between 1-2K

I find that the higher priced CD players pursue playing perfection but create porblems on their own. I'm looking for a good sounding player that can handle female vocals as well as full symphony orchestras. It seem, when the mids get overloaded the sound strains and loses detail. I have tried several $400-$1000 units with several types of solid state electronics & speakers. It seems the more you pay for the player, the more this midrange trouble occurs.
I presently have a Cary 308 player but I'm looking for something with more consistent or forgiving sound performance. I listen to jazz, blues, chamber music, opera and symphonies. My present electronics are Coda and my speakers are ProAc D15's.
jihley

Showing 1 response by lkdog

lkdog
417 posts
 
I had a Cary 308 for quite some time and enjoyed it very much.
Am now using a Marantz SA14 version 1 which I bought used and then had modified by Tube Research Labs.
The mod is $550. The SA14 v.1 retailed for $3000 but used runs around $1200.
Total investment around $1750.
Amazing extreme detail, smoothness, natural extended sound.
See the TRL Marantz SA14 thread for more comments on this option. Those that have it consider it a reference type level unit.

Another cheaper, yet also extraordinary route is a Sony ES2000 modded by Tube Research Labs. Player is $250-275 and mod is the standard $550. See comments by La45 in same thread referenced.

Good luck.
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