2. digital
  3. 188515-187348

Annoying newbie CD/SACD player question

I am still using my Sony 5 disc carousel CD player that I bought in 1992.  I have loved this thing for years and years.  Recently it started skipping.  I cured that with some budget isolation feet from Amazon.  After about a year it’s starting to act up again, not being able to register that a CD is in the tray.  Turning it off and on fixed that but even without the recent problem I’ve been looking for a replacement for a while now. 
 

I have around maybe 25 hybrid SACD’s and have always wanted to try the format.  The only SACD player I can afford new is the Arcam CDS50.  I’ve also looked at a used Marantz 8005 SACD player and various used Sony’s.  On the other hand I’m thinking of just forgetting about SACD and I’m primarily looking at the Cambridge transport and the Audiolab 600cdt.  I would consider the new Audiolab CDT models as well.   Part of me wants to scratch my SACD itch.  I think the Marantz used is the best option.  It’s a recent model so likely still a lot of life left in it.  Looking at gut shots it seems much better built than the Arcam.  Am I wrong about that?  As far as the Cd transport option It seems that the Audiolab is the best bang for the buck with the only downside being the slot loading mechanism that scratches some people’s discs.

I’m having a hard time deciding which avenue to take.  I guess, like most people, I’m looking for the most bang for the buck.  Sorry for the rambling post.  I thought maybe it would instigate some suggestions to help me with my decision.  Thanks

plasticspoon8
mahler123
3,048 posts
 

I have a Sony 5400ES on a shelf in my basement, unplayed for probably 5 years.  It had one annoying trait, in that every SACD would start about 3 seconds into the first track.  Redbook CDs not affected.  I should probably plug it in and see what it does now

panzrwagn's avatar
panzrwagn
441 posts
 

You are correct that the Marantz is the better built piece. Many people don't realize just how well done any of the higher end Marantz pieces are - CD,SACD, or amplifiers. They are anything but mid-fi. And because they are a manufacturer, not a re-packager, they have better control over the quality and longevity than most. That is why they are so highly valued on the vintage market - over 60 years building to a higher spec. The mainstream offerings are still above average build - and sound - quality, but they are clearly not built to the level of their high-end products,

goose
669 posts
 

I will chime in only because I have had several sony and marantz players that were modified by ModWright over the years.  I had the Sony 999ES, Sony 5400 and the Marantz 8005.  I kept the Marantz for a period of 7 years and never had a problem with it.  I would say that the top end was very, very slightly rolled off but it was my favorite and the most reliable compared to the Sony's.  If you could find one of the Marantz Ruby players, that's what I would do.  

mcondo
199 posts
 

Re Sony cd/sacd/dvd players, I have an old s570. CD layer is mid fi at best but I find the player sounds pretty good playing SACD's with good amp and speakers (YBA/ProAc) They can be good interim or back up players IMHO. 

clydeactor
24 posts
 

I'm not sure why, but it seems that the Samsung DVD-HD841 doesn't get much mention (or respect),  it is affordable and sounds excellent, with an elegant look.  Never fails to read the SACD layer.  Aloha...

More to discover