Just what the title says, should I buy a new player or is a good DAC all I really need?
Oppinions needed: New player or a good DAC?
- Thread starter ManyMoonsAudio
- Start date
anybody?
Mid 90's Adcom GCD-700. Dual 20 bit Burr Browns, Class A output section, dual power supplies. Best "carousel" player I have had. It does most everything very well and I am wondering how much there is to be gained by a new unit or DAC. Been looking at the Ayon Tube players and the one I am interested in I can get for $2500. Before I shuck out the bucks for a "all in one", I am wondering if a $500 DAC will do me the same......? Thanks in advance. Oh, the rest of the system is Kenwood 700M/C with homebrew speaks primarily stemmed from JBL drivers. This is a very "dynamic" and revealing system with a front row perspective. My Vinyl rig bests the CD playback in all areas of cource, but I have LOTTS of CD's.
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carbonman
It's All About The Music
There are a lot of DACs in the sub-$1K range that you could try. I'd suggest something used under $500. This would let you try another DAC and sell it a little or no loss if you don't like the sound difference.
I had a CAL CL-10 carousel changer that I loved. I had to buy a replacement after getting it stolen and was amazed at the difference in sound of my McIntosh player. It's worth trying newer digital processing equipment because the state of the art has changed. If your player is rock solid, keep it and shop for another changer of newer vintage for mechanical reliability and parts availability.
I had a CAL CL-10 carousel changer that I loved. I had to buy a replacement after getting it stolen and was amazed at the difference in sound of my McIntosh player. It's worth trying newer digital processing equipment because the state of the art has changed. If your player is rock solid, keep it and shop for another changer of newer vintage for mechanical reliability and parts availability.
chuckworkb
Super Member
Try a Cambridge DAC Magic. I think it's $400 for a new one, and some people really like that unit.
Or look for a PS Audio Digital Link III. Since PS Audio came out with their new DAC, you can get that one for a good price new, or used on AG.
Or look for a PS Audio Digital Link III. Since PS Audio came out with their new DAC, you can get that one for a good price new, or used on AG.
CD/DVD Transport are dead!! Spend the cash on a D/A Converter!!! Having the option to rip EAC process with a cheap CD-rom. This is very important for WinXP/Vista/7 users! Itunes won't make a clone for you only a copy.
