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DVD-A player with best redbook cd playback

I am shopping for an upgrade and need to hear opinions on DVD-A players that excel in redbook CD playback. I can go demo or pre-owned. Video quality is important (I want progressive scan), but the highest criteria is audio playback. The Integra Research RDV-1 has been recommended to me. I've been looking at the Muse players, but the Model 10 is out of my range (under $2,500). I haven't had the opportunity to audition any DVD-A's yet.

My HT system so far:
Aragon 8008x5 amp
Anthem AVM2 preamp
Bohlender Graebener hybid planar speakers (520 DX fronts & rears, 220 DX center)
Hsu VTF2 powered subwoofer
Panasonic RP-65 DVD (to be replaced)
Tice Solo Power Conditioner & Enhancer
JPS superconductor bi-wire speaker cable(fronts)
Audioquest Slate (rears)
Interconnects are: Stealth CWS, Elko G1999, Siltech G48
TV : old Sony to be replaced within 1 year with plasma screen- model TBD
Room: 14’ x 20’ x 8’, carpeted, 6’ x 16’ window on long wall
No tweaks yet
Power: dedicated 20 A circuit

I am also planning to upgrade my front speakers to probably a demo set of Montana SPX, and then will buy the 42" plasma screen & tuner last.

Please educate this poor boy...DVD-A players, speakers, plasma screens...I welcome all input.
lorenc1
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
You ought to hold out for COMBINED DVD-A/SACD/CD/DVD-V,etc capability. For $500 or less you can get a Pioneer DV-45A that does all this. Decent build quality, and it sounds good to me. I think the sound improvement just due to the new media will keep you happy for a while. Check out the Pioneer website for details on the 45-A.
mgattmch
556 posts
 
I personally use a Pioneer Elite DV-38A and I am very happy with it, both sonically and visually. However, in all honesty I can't tell you how it compares with similarly priced DVD-A players from other manufacturers.
unsound
7,315 posts
 
The Arcams and the Sony 9000ES seem to garner much praise for the reasons you outline.
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