[minya]

Which of these 3 players is best?

I'm looking for a good CDP that's around $150. These three seem to be the top choices.

The SCD-CE775 seems by far the best, but is (of course!) the toughest to find. There's one on eBay but it doesn't have any accessories (no manual, remote, etc.) so I'm a little wary. I think it's probably my best bet, though.

The Denon can be had for a great price on eBay, too. How is the sound on this one? This is my second choice.

Coming in third is the NSC-500V (or something similar - I probably have the model # wrong) that is a DVD player, too. This one just seems like it's more suited to DVDs than audio CDs, esp. since to change some features you need to have it hooked up to a TV.

Are there any other good choices in my price range?

(Please don't recommend an $800 player or say these are inferior to an Arcam whateverblahblahblahblah - I know they are, but I can't afford one. So please keep price in mind!)

Thanks!
- Chris

 

[JMT]

Well, if you decide on the Denon let me know. I have one here that has not been used at all in the last 6 months. Since we live relatively close you can save on shipping.

I am not posting an opinion as I have not heard the others on your list.

 

[morphsci]

Well I have both the Denon and the 500V and auditioned the 775. If you want SACD capability my preference is the 500V. For CD playback The Denon and 500V are about equivalent. This does not mean they sound the same. The Denon is smoother and the Sony has greater detail. I use the Sony for DVD and multichannel SACD. The Denon also decodes HDCD and is a changer so those may be advantageous to you. Plus you already have an offer for a used Denon that you can see before you buy, what a deal