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Best one-chasis CD/SACD player under $15 000?

Hi, I'm currently running an all Electrocompaniet top system with EMC-1UP as a source. However I will be changing to Classe amplification (my speakers are B&W 800 Di) quite soon so it makes sense to upgrade the source as well. Sadly Classe doesn't make CD players anymore so I'm in the market for a robust, huge and neutral sounding CD/SACD player that would be a real step up from EMC-1UP. I don't want any artificial sweetening, tubes, colorationes etc. Just pure signal. However I don't want to go separates (not to mention 4 block monsters a-la dCS). Can I buy real Hi End sound in one chasis under 15 grand?
antonkk
lula
208 posts
 
Bobheinatz,
Is your Isis the SS or tubed version? Were you able to listen to both?
bobheinatz
705 posts
 
My Isis is the SS version. I was able to compare the tubed unit with the SS and like to SS better. SS was more dynamic and presented the music overall more natural. On vocals the tube unit would have a slight edge. Both unit are great and it would boil down to personal taste.
crna39's avatar
crna39
145 posts
 
Playback Designs MPS-5
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
The Playback is > 15k now with the USB-X box and I think it sounds great. The XDS1 is a cleaner more neutral sound but the MPS5 is so close to it, it's a real bargain. I use the MPS5 in my second system while the XDS1 is in the main room.
audio_lee's avatar
audio_lee
11 posts
 
tsk tsk...still pushing it, Doggie?

At this rate, I may end up owning a Playback Design rather than an EMM Labs. Noticed that there are NO pre-owned Playback Design units for sale here while thre's plently of EMM Labs around?

By the way, how is the 115VAC vs 220VAC situation with the Playback Design unit? Switchable? Unlike the EMM Labs that is very inflexiable with international voltages, you need to get them to change the input voltage at their Canadian factory?

(Audio)
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