$2,000 Used CD Player or Modified Oppo 105

Bullitt -

did you not wish to add the Parasound cd player to your system? Many, many audiophiles feel this is the best player on the market at this juncture. I do see the player in the used market often- keep me posted and happy listening!

I had my oppo sent directly to Ric at EVS for mods from new and it sounded incredible right away but did get even better after break-in. I do use it for home theater processing and switch easily to 2 channel audio via ethernet cable through the home network. It's a great network player. This unit got $800 Worth of mods and Its my last stop, don't even consider another player. It does so much, I can't think of a bigger bang for the buck especially if your 2 channel listening doubles as home theatre.

Ordered the 105D last week and will give that a try in stock form to start with. Will also pick up the Ayre C-5xeMP to compare the two. Shouldn't have much trouble moving either one for a slight loss after the shootout. I ended up with a pre-owned Hegel H200 integrated amp instead of the new Parasound units for now as well.

Out of the box the 105D seems to match up well with the Hegel H200. The versatility of this unit is truly impressive. Similar sound stage to my Arcam DV29 with considerably more detail. My only concern is that I would consider some musical instrumentation to be a little forward in the sound stage. As an example on Patricia Barber's What A Shame cut the bongos seem to overpower her voice. A similar issue with the finger snapping on the cut Ode To Billy Joe which I have not experienced before.

I would give the Oppo at least a month for it to break in and
for you to get used to its sonic presentation. Sometimes, we
are so used to the sound of a CD player that a new one sounds
"wrong". So both the player and you need a bit of time
before you jump to conclusions. IMO.