Balanced (XLR) CD player recommendations


Hi folks,
I’m looking for some balanced CD player recommendations that would match with my Krell KAV-300i intergrated. I had posted a question in the amps section several weeks ago regarding using balanced connection for the Krell—as I noticed a significant difference when connected via XLR on an NAD S500 CD player. The player was returned due to a fussy problem reading certain redbook cd’s, but the balanced connection was superior over rca. I’m now looking for another balanced player and I’m considering the following this far (as I’m not sure what else is out there). My budget is $550, but I may stretch it to $650 if needed. I’d like to find a matching Krell KAV-250cd/2, but they are hard to find. My speakers are Vandersteen 2c and cables are Kimber 4tc and PBJ interconnects. 

1. Creek CD53
2. Cambridge Audio 840c
3. Rotel RCD-991
4. Emotiva ERC-3
4. Krell KAV-250cd/2

jsbach1685

Showing 7 responses by maritime51

Oh, I had a Rotel rcd 990 for 20 years so the 991 should be a winner. 
The Rotel has balanced outputs. I moved to a pure transport and outboard DAC. 
Yes, that’s certainly so. In many years of experience, in runs shorter than 10 feet or so I’ve not heard a difference between them.  
Even the pseudo balanced circuits appear to sound better as the voltage is higher.