[Jeff Guidry]

I'd like to have a player that has better redbook playback than my Sony 500v, and I was thinking about upgrading to the Philips 963a so I could continue to have redbook and SACD in one package. However, I thought that maybe modding the 500v might get the better sound I want, or maybe I should just get a good redbook only player to complement my Sony. With a max of $500 to spend, what do you think is the best option?

 

[andrzejpw]

I say go for the philips if you're seeking an all-in-one solution. However, I ask you if you've considered a dac. For $500, you could get an art di/o and get it modded by bolder. It would be very hard to beat a modded art for redbook, and let's be honest, how many sacds do you have?

 

[pigmode]

I would recommend the Phillips, but their record for quality control makes that uncomfortable for me. OTH, you are contemplating a mod which is probably an equal risk. I would chance the Phillips or another player.

 

[Jeff Guidry]

I have considered an ART DI/O. Yes, to be honest, I only have a few SACD's, which is why I didn't want to comprimise my redbook playback anymore...

I was just wondering now if you thought a modded ART DI/O on the 500v would yield results worth the cost? My best amp is a homemade META 42 w/OPA637, EL2001's and 24v linear wall wart. Assuming this is as far as I am willing to go amp wise, and considering my headphone inventory (Sony V6 and ATH-W100), would an outboard DAC give me the results I want at a reasonable price?

Thanks for your help guys.

P.S. How do you think the redbook playback on the unmodded Philips 963a would compare with a 500v w/ modded ART DI/O?

 

[Gopher]

well... have you considered selling the ns500v? Mine went for $200 on ebay. That would bump your budget up to $700... I haven't listened to many sources,, but am inclined to believe 700 bux on the used market will go a long way.

Fred

P.S. if thats not a good option for you, 963sa

 

[Jeff Guidry]

I did indeed think of factoring in the sale of the 500v to add to the price of any upgrade I might get.

I am still wondering if a modded ART DI/O would greatly improve on the sound of the 963a. There is the elegance of a one box solution that I prefer, but having an outboard DAC, if it gets me significantly better sound, is something I am willing to do.

 

[tom hankins]

I don't think I would modify something thats not to good to begin with. Why not keep the 500V for sacd and dvd. Spend your 500.00 on a good used redbook only player, like a Planet2K, or a Creek CD43, or something along these lines.

 

[Jeff Guidry]

Thanks for your advice tom. I am strongly considering a good used redbook player. Can you recommend some?

 

[tom hankins]

Jeff, YGPM

 

[john_jcb]

Quote:

Originally posted by pigmode I would recommend the Phillips, but their record for quality control makes that uncomfortable for me. OTH, you are contemplating a mod which is probably an equal risk. I would chance the Phillips or another player.

Maybe I got lucky, it has to happen sometime, as my 963SA has performed flawlessly. I have been very pleased since I first plugged it in. Attaching the Emmeline HR-2 and Cardas/HD600's and I was set. I am happy with this setup at home until the urge to buy something new strikes me again.