Replace Cambridge Audio D500 or add DAC?

Cool. Sounds good. I have to admit I read it several times and was never positive whether it was partially directed at me.

I have no doubt that those mods would make a real big improvement. I have a Cary Audio cd player that is nothing but a Rotel 955 with a totally replaced analog section. Come to think of it, I need to sell that thing. Anyway, the replacement tube output section was quite impressive. It's also good to know that others are aware that the analog section can make a huge difference in the sound of the front end. On one hand this last statement might sound ridiculously apparent. However, how often do you see a manufacturer advertising anything other than what type of processing some of the chips do? Almost never. Happy listening.

I had the Levinson 31.5 so I speak from experience, I also own the Cambridge D500SE. I don't care if this is AudioPhile Anethema, the Cambridge is a far better transport. It beat the big Levinson up so badly, I called the factory because I thought the unit must be defective. Well it wasn't and I no longer have the 31.5. I got rid of the Levinson and have a CEC TL0 on order, but I am not parting with my Cambridge. People see a price point and just assume the more expesive stuff is better. It all warrants listening. As for the first post, if it is not of Audiophile quality then the Levinson must be what? complete CACA?

Regards,

Mike

The EVS Millennium DAC II may also be a good choice(read reviews on audioreview.com and a review of the previous DAC 1 on stereotimes.com as well as past posts on Audiogon). It's $1050 from www.tweakaudio.com and you can return it in 30 days if you don't absolutely love what it does for your system. My understanding is that the Cambridge will actually make a decent transport, so I'd go the DAC route and wait till the current format wars work themselves out, and you still may want to use this combo for redbook CDs. I've got an EVS DAC 1 and it's like the Roto Rooter man came in and did a number on my system--and the DAC II is supposed to be "way better," according to Ric at EVS. Tons of detail, huge soundstage with palpable space and air around and between performers, dead silent backdrop, and dynamics that will floor you. Brings every performance to life. Best audio purchase I've made. Best of luck.

Tim