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What do modern, current day CD Transports do that older CDP's with RCA digital out don't?

I have read a few posts saying that even a modern inexpensive CD transport can sound better with modern DACs than older, more expensive CD players equipped with digital outputs (RCA digital output).

I understand very old CD players with optical outputs only can be poorer sounding due to the optical interface. But I would be curious to learn about how a nice $2000 Sony ES or Marantz higher grade CD player from 12-15 years ago, with RCA digital out won’t work just as well feeding a DAC as say, an modern Audiolab slot loading transport for about $600.  Let's consider the older player is working without problems, like bad laser or mechanical problems.

Hopeful that someone here can explain what the new stuff has on board that works in their favor.

troidelover1499
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,610 posts
 

i am not an expert on this, but i understand the newer players have fancier/more effective error correction/jitter management in the clocking and signal transmission out of the digital output

for spdif outputs the receiving dac is slave to the sender clock (whereas the newer usb configuration lets the receiver unit clock be the controlling one... )

am sure others with more detailed knowledge will chime in

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,233 posts
 

@fuzztone 

That's a nice and detailed description of the Pro-Ject CD Box RS2T you posted but it retails for 3200.00 USD. I believe that the OP is more interested in the Audiolab slot loading transport that goes for 600.00 USD. Very different price point and market target.

Charles 

davide256's avatar
davide256
395 posts
 

There's a fad to use CD's again. Unlike vinyl its not valid for better SQ.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,502 posts
 

Sorry  charles1dad  that you dropped the ball. The OP asked the difference, not recommendations.

Cost is not valid. 

 

 

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,233 posts
 

I have read a few posts saying that even a modern inexpensive CD transport can sound better with modern DACs than older, more expensive CD players equipped with digital outputs (RCA digital output)

Well the OP mentioned " inexpensive CD transports,"  but perhaps my inference is wrong. Anyway I’m sure he appreciates all responses.

Charles

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