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Opinions on Marantz SA-7S1, Nagra CDP

Might be changing the digital side of my system. Does anyone have any experience with the new Marantz SA-7S1 or the Nagra CDP. These 2 pieces interest me because of their novel ways of handling cd, seem very well thought out. Possibly replacing a Krell Reference 64 DAC DT-10 transport. This combo has a very weighted, dynamic sound, considered to be a form of distortion by purists, but I actually enjoy the presentation. My preamp and amps which I have no intention of removing (SMC McCormack monos and pre)have a warm , liquid signature and precise, clear sounding digital is what works best in my experience. Any thoughts are appreciated.
togo
hamr
56 posts
 
I have a Marantz SA-7S1 and it is as good as all the different reviews say it is. I have had several high end transports and D/A's at home and this player is certainly competitive with any that I have listened to. The only drawback is a long breakin time. It is definitively built as good as anything the highend has to offer and is a joy to listen to. Good luck!
f1a
196 posts
 
Hamr:
How many hours of breakin did it require? Did you breakin both CD and SACD separately? Which filters do you prefer?
hamr
56 posts
 
F1a. It took about a month of constant playing to sound its best. I didn't break in the CD and SACD separately and the sound seemed to improve in the same ways in both formats so I guess the improvements are in the power supply or output section. I have never had a component that changed as much as this one with time. The funny thing is that it wasn't how long the unit was left on as I would unplug it if a thunderstorm was in the area and it would regain it's sound rather quickly. I usually stick with filter#1, but I have heard the others improve certain CD's.
larryi
3,757 posts
 
I heard the Nagra CDP in a friend's system for several hours. I liked the sound -- clear, detailed and open, without being overly edgy and brittle. None of us preferred it over the Naim CD555 that it was being compared to, but, it is about half the price.

I also really like its look and compact size. However, it does have some operational quirks. If I recall correctly, if one operated the unit manually to start play on the machine, the remote control became inoperable. The remote was also quite weird and difficult to use. Ergonomically speaking, I would not agree that this player is well thought out.
togo OP
12 posts
 
The Nagra is of interest because of its build quality and attention to detail. Features and being user friendly is unimportant. Larryi, although the Naim is a very impressive machine, as you said, it is in a completely different price category. Hamr, thank you for your comments on the Marantz.
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