[Clutz]

I'm looking to buy a used CD player for my office (which also happens to be my main) rig. Currently I use a NONOS USB DAC designed by dsavitsk, but I'm interested in getting a dedicated CDP to use too. There are several different options I'm considering, but I'm having difficulty deciding which I should go with.

The options I'm considering are: Marantz CD63SE, Arcam Alpha One, Arcam Alpha 8, Denon DCD2560, or a Rotel RCD-855.

What do you recommend and why? I think the Arcam Alpha One is the lowest on my list, and my top three are probably the Arcam Alpha 8, the Denon DCD2560 and the Rotel RCD-855 but i'm looking for input. d

Thanks,
Clutz

 

[memepool]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Clutz /img/forum/go_quote.gif What do you recommend and why? I think the Arcam Alpha One is the lowest on my list, and my top three are probably the Arcam Alpha 8, the Denon DCD2560 and the Rotel RCD-855 but i'm looking for input.

There isn't much in it quality wise between Marantz and the older Arcams. I have lived with both at the same time. The Alpha one is multibit so will have a more upfront sound than the other machines mentioned, quite similar sounding to a Marantz CD65/CD75.

The Marantz CD63SE or 63KIS are renowned classics but most Marantz machines are a good buy 2nd hand.

The same goes for Rotel, another popular option and all these machines are strong on timbre compared to the likes of NAD / Musical Fidelity / Cambridge Audio.

I wouldn't get too hung up on seeking out specific models unless you are going for a real top of the range set like the Marantz CD94, where you are really paying for build quality.

 

[Clutz]

Okay, what if I introduce price into the equation. I can get a Rotel RCD855 for about $130, a Arcam Alpha One for about $130, an Arcam Alpha 8 for about $300, or the Denon DCD2560 for about $250

 

[Clutz]

What if I add an NAD 541i to the list? Right now i feel like the Arcam Alpha One, Arcam Alpha 8, and NAD 541i are on the top of my list.

 

[spacemanspliff]

Oppo DV-970

http://www.avguide.com/news/2006/12/...versal-player/

For $150 it sure is a flexible disk player. I'm getting one in the next month or so.

 

[gonglee]

This is a tube one that also upconverts to 192/24.
The sound becomes smoother with better highs.
Many swear by tubes in digital source - they tame the digital-ness.

http://cgi.ebay.com/MHZS-CD66-TOP-LO...QQcmdZViewItem

The shipping is very high - be aware.