Is it worth upgrading a CD player?


I’ve had my Marantz CD6002 for around 14 years and it’s still going strong. I have it connected to an Audiolab M-DAC+ and play via my Rega amp. I’m mostly vinyl but have started to playvmy CD’s more recently and wondered whether upgrading the CD player would be worth it or not, given the fact it’s played via a dedicated DAC. Am I right in thinking there would be little noticeable improvement?

side22olto

@charles1dad - Thanks for the recommendations and links to reviews.

My DAC situation has changed from what is posted on my system page. In fact, I just sold the EVO B4B21 but I added the EVO PRO, which is a subtle improvement in refinement and resolution, and everything else that improving those attributes brings. In addition, I just added Benjamin’s top Mystique X SE DAC and it is still breaking in, by playing music and Ayre’s frequency sweeps on repeat. The X SE is another level of resolution and I am hoping not too much for me. The detail it displays is extraordinary yet it does retain the musicality and tone that Benjamin’s DACs are known for. I plan to let it settle in before coming to any conclusions about which I like best. One thing is for sure, they are both excellent sounding DACs.

@mitch2 

Well, congratulations on acquiring the new DAC. A further step upwards? Even more of a reason for an upper tier CD transport such as the CDT3 MK III if you decide to spin CDs. 😊

Charles

 

I’m getting a lot of comments re. streaming, which I already do, and about getting a DAC, which I already have, but for clarification, my question is whether an upgraded CD player/transport is worth the investment when I want to physically play a CD and sit and listen to it. I think from all the comments it’s clear that it won’t be a night and day difference so I’ll stick with what I have and if it ever packs in, I’ll look at getting a dedicated CD transport. Thanks again for all the comments and feedback!

@side22olto 

I think that’s a good decision at this point. I don’t believe that at your current budget limit you’d achieve a “night and day “ difference. A significant improvement is possible but in my opinion would require an upper tier quality dedicated  CD transport as mentioned earlier in this discussion.

Charles