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Unidisk SC vs. VSEI modded Sony for SACD?

Has anyone compared these players? I was considering modding my 9000es (vsei level 5) and keeping the Ikemi for redbook, but now I'm wondering what other options are there that would include selling the Ikemi and 9000es and allocating a $3000-3600 budget for a used SACD/redbook player that does each outstandingly well (IMO would have to be outstanding to better the Ikemi in redbook). Some options I'm looking at, aside from vsei modding the 9000es as described above, are getting a Linn Unidisk SC which I know would beat the stock 9000es in SACD and redbook, but I'm concerned that I would be spending so much for a Linn player whose redbook is just on par with the Ikemi. In that case there would be no point in selling the latter, and simply mod the 9000es. Other options I'm considering are pickin up a used SCD-777es and have that vsei modded (for a total of around $2500-3000 for the level 5 vsei and stock scd-777es). I'm considering the latter option because the SCD-777es transport seems to be (from what I;ve read) a better foundation upon which to build than the 9000es, whose transport is not as solid as that of the Ikemi's.

So there's the modding of a Sony 9000es or 777es, or possibly a one box stock solution such as the Unidisk SC, which brings up the usual questions regarding its SACD and redbook.

I'm mainly interested in the most outstanding SACD, but not unless the redbook is also in the ballpark of the Ikemi. I listen mainly (~75%) to classical and about 25% classic jazz and rock combined.

Any help greatly appreciated.
tedd1
howie
230 posts
 
I think that if you own the 9000es now, the most cost efficient/biggest bang for the buck option would be to modify this player. The 777es should be better and have greater weight and stability (I was told) but the cost of the 777es and the 5+ upgrade would be at least $1500 more than modding the 9000es for slightly better performance.

I just purchased a 9000es and am currently having it upgraded. I decided not to pursue the 777es option due to the extra cost (I went with the balanced option) but I probably would go with the 777es option if money isn't a concern. I asked Allen Wright about the differences and he told me that he thought the 777es was superior but depending on your tonal tastes, you might prefer the 9000es on redbook.

As far as modded player vs Linn, I think you'll get quite a few different responses. My gut feeling is that the modded player would sound better. But since you own a Linn, you might like the Linn sound. Another thing to consider is that if you pick up a used Linn SC and don't like it, you can resell it easily for no loss. If you mod the 9000/777es player and decide to go with the Linn SC instead, you will lose something immediately. Keep us updated.
newmanoc
295 posts
 
I am fond of most Linn gear, but I don't think the Unidisk SC is the way you want to go for a couple of reasons. First of all, remember the SC is also a processor/preamp, so a significant amount of the product's cost goes into these functions rather than just CD/SACD playback.

Secondly, the redbook on the SC is actually not as good as the Ikemi (the SC falls somewhere between the Ikemi and the Genki on redbook playback). If you can come up with the coin and find a good deal, a Unidisk 2.1 would be a great option. It is excellent on SACD and it is head and shoulders better on redbook than the Ikemi. I have seen these sell for $4000, but only once (between $4500 and $5000 is the usual price range).

I can't speak to modifying your Sony for SACD. I have never heard any of these modified players first hand. But if you have heard them, or at least have a friend recommending them whose ears you trust, the price does seem comparatively reasonable.
dennis_the_menace's avatar
dennis_the_menace
467 posts
 
The VSE level 5 mod to my Sony 9000 is outstanding. It leaves little to be desired in a front end. Wonderfully transparent and open, yet absolutely natural and organic.
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