This unit is a 5-disc changer and a killer source for both Redbook and SACDs. Can also be used as a top-quality transport to an outboard DAC for Redbook as this unit has been specially modified by Modwright to improve performance as a transport. The Sony sold for $1200 new, and the mods to it retailed for around $680.
Condition is like new (purchased a little over a year ago), with original box, manual, remote. Price is $900 plus $30 for ground shipping. I am also offering the Virtual Dynamics Signature Cryo 5' power cable that I used with the Sony. Price on the cord is $350 plus $10 ground shipping.
Here is the list of the Level 1 Mods performed by Modwright (
www.modwright.com):
Upgrade power supply with Schottky rectifiers and further mods to lower the noise floor
Upgrade key analog power supply capacitors to Black Gates
Upgrade key digital power supply capacitors to Black Gates and Sanyo OS-CONs
Upgrade all op-amps to ultra-fast Linear Tech. Units with current loading mods
Upgrade key analog signal path resistors to Vishays and Caddocks
Upgrade key analog filter path capacitors to Wima films
Upgrade analog coupling caps to Black Gates with Auricap film capacitor bypass caps
Add an IEC socket for use with removable power cords
Damping mods
Here's Modwright's description of the Bybee Filters:
WOW! I immediately heard a HUGE improvement in my system. Things were clearer, highs sparkled and bass simply growled. It simply removed a large amount of grunge that I did not realize was blocking the audio signal. For a technical explanation of how they work and what they do, I would recommend going to Bybee's website - www.bybeetech.com. Soundstage, resolution, dynamics were simply ALL improved.
I have found nothing but good results with these units and I highly recommend them.
Finally, here's an idea of what Modwright did to the digital out (he has removed the 333ES mods from his site, but this is the mod he does to another unit):
Transport Upgrade: Upgrade digital out jack to a Cryo treated Cardas RCA, upgrade digital out resistors to precision 1% metal film units, upgrade digital filter caps to Black Gates and hard-wire digital out circuit with Jena Wire.
Dan is no longer mod-ing the 333ES so this may be your only chance to get one! It's a very attractive unit and built very solidly for a CDP.
Mark
Sony SCD-333ES SACDP with Modwright Mods, Bybee Filters, and Transport Mods
No, he replaced the coaxial digital out (for CD) that was already in the stock unit with better components. This allows it to act as a superior transport for your Redbook CDs if you have an outboard DAC.
