McCormack UDP-1 Deluxe - yay or nay?

[jpelg]

I initially purchased my current Denon (3910) with the intention of modding it. However, the cost of getting the maximum mods puts me into the financial category of some nice stock players, especially if I go used.

I'm seriously considering a McCormack UDP-1 Deluxe (I like the Conrad-Johnson upgrades). There's a used one in the 'Gon for about $2500, which is where the best Denon mods start. New UPD-1 Deluxe's are in the $3.5-3.9k range, which would max me out for some time, but if it's worth it, it'd be worth it.

I like the fact that it's a one-box unit, rather than requiring a separate, bulky power supply the modded Denon's require for their new output stages, too. Keeping it simple.

So, anyone have an opinion before I pull the trigger?

 

[Jon L]

Yes, go for it. I would have bought it myself if it had digital input of any kind for my PC.

The stock UDP-1 truly outclasses stock Denon 3910 in side-by-side comparisons. UDP-1 Deluxe, from my limited encounters, seems to improve upon stock's detail resolution and immediacy while retaining/improving effortless dynamic punch and bass power.

 

[jpelg]

Thanks, Jon.

From your listening experiences with the McCormack's (both versions), how do you consider its basic sound signature? One of the reasons I loved my old Modwright Sony (999ES) was its liquid sound. I'd like to get that without tubes (or extra power supply). I also don't want to loose resolution either though.

Reviews I've read of the UDP-1 make it sound fairly neutral, with good detail & bass response. Where do you find it on the "vinyl scale"? Do you recommend any other universal players in that range over the McCormack?

TIA.

 

[jp11801]

prior to going with the MCcormack I would suggest you at least listen to an exemplar modded denon 2900. These are the steal of the audio world at $1500-1700 used on audiogon. It is close to the best I have heard redbook play it outclassed an esoteric at out last Tampa meet for redbook playback.

 

[tom hankins]

I've heard the UDP-1 (not deluxe) and the Modwright 3910 side by side and the Modwright was in a class above on every front. Sure you cant go tubes and outboard PS? Maybe it would be cheaper to by a used modwright 3910 for about 2200.00 and sell your stock model over modding your unit?

 

[jpelg]

Thanks guys!

Base on your input, and my past experience with a Modwright Sony, it seems that the modded Denon with a tubed output stage is probably more what i am looking for. And in the $2-3k range it is competitive with, if not better than most stock units in that same pricepoint.

 

[Yikes]

FYI The McCormack is based upon the $500 Pioneer universal player. Don’t get me wrong, the McCormack/CJ is a great sounding player, but it doesn’t come close to my Exemplar 3910.

 

[robm321]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jp11801 /img/forum/go_quote.gif prior to going with the MCcormack I would suggest you at least listen to an exemplar modded denon 2900. These are the steal of the audio world at $1500-1700 used on audiogon. It is close to the best I have heard redbook play it outclassed an esoteric at out last Tampa meet for redbook playback.

Agreed - also a fully modded (tubes + stand alone power supply a must) 3910 was more enjoyable and on par with the EMM labs in many ways on Redbook. My dealer felt the same way.

BUT you have to get the full mod package. Going half way with mods is a whole set of levels below. Tubes make a significant difference in presence and musicality that SS can't do... no matter what the cost.

All this IMHO of course.

 

[jpelg]

Well, after conversing with Dan a bit, as well as reading all of your collective posts, I have decided to get my Denon modded by Modwright. He did a great job on my old Sony, so I feel very comfortable with his work.

He reports that the Denon mods are several levels above the Sony's, including improved components & circuitry. I'll probably ship it out this weekend.

Thanks everyone for their input!

 

[tom hankins]

Way to go Jimmy!! As you know i am also a fan of the 999ES by Modwright..that said, you are going to be VERY happy with the 3910 upgrade. I hope he talked you into the tubed power supply.

 

[robm321]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpelg /img/forum/go_quote.gif Well, after conversing with Dan a bit, as well as reading all of your collective posts, I have decided to get my Denon modded by Modwright. He did a great job on my old Sony, so I feel very comfortable with his work. He reports that the Denon mods are several levels above the Sony's, including improved components & circuitry. I'll probably ship it out this weekend. Thanks everyone for their input!

You will not regret it... THIS (go to archive and then 3910) review states my impressions as well

BTW, in the review, he mentions "Jeff from Audible Arts" - that's my friend/dealer

Anyway, I have an email to the guy at A'gon selling his absolute truth modded 3910 and hope to hear back soon. I'll be buying it if someone hasn't beat me to it.

 

[jpelg]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tom hankins /img/forum/go_quote.gif I hope he talked you into the tubed power supply.

Thanks Tom. Yeah, he gave me a bit of a break on the tube-rectified PS, so I'll go for it now, rather than always wondering.

Should take about four weeks or so, including transit. Puts me around September, so I'm justifying by saying it's my birthday present to myself!