CDP or DAC/Transport for $1300 new?

I have been acquiring CD players over the last few months. I like CDs. I don't see myself ever embracing vinyl as my preferred listening source and I can't mentally wrap my head around converting my music over to a server system. Though, I really like how turntables look.

I have been using a Rega Apollo for 6 years or so now. I have been happy with the Rega. I also have a Musical Fidelity CD PRE 24, which is 9 years old. I half fear that the cd players will start biting the dust.

I read a review about the XTZ CD 100/ 11 in HIFI World (July issue). The reviewer couldn't praise the cd player enough. He was definitely implying that it could be a giant killer.

So, I pulled the trigger and purchased one for about $600. I dealt directly with Olle Eliasson, XTZ' owner. I have been using the player for about a week now and am very impressed.

In the new weeks, I will be posting my impressions about the XTZ cd player, as well as the player by Emotiva.

Rich

The basic audio CD (as opposed to computer based DVD/CDROM) drives are becoming extinct as manufacturer after manufacturer (the two big ones Sony/Philips) stops making them. The writing is on the wall, folks.

That is why I went with a PWT from PS Audio. Uses a computer style DVD drive (combined with a SS memory playback) that is less likely to go obsolete. No, its not perfect but pretty good considering the limited 16/44.1 media. It also will play high res stuff in the right format if burned to DVD. Its more expensive than your $1300, but you can get them for about $2K at Underwood.

I used to think I would always prefer to play CDs. Then I was auditioning some new speakers and the guy handed me an iPad and said pick your music. I was hooked. I did some research and bought a Mac Mini, Arcam RDAC, and started ripping. Using lossless file type, (disk space is cheap), and playing back using Pure Music player which sits on top of iTunes, I now have my entire Cd library available at a touch. I've played songs I haven't listened to in years. All this can be done right about the price you are willing to spend ( and some time ripping).

Just a thought.