Good CD player vs. Transport and DAC


Where am I going to get the best Digital playback? Going with a high end CD player or a transport and DAC? Also, what's the difference between a transport and a cd player if you are using an external dac with either one? I am thinking of an Oppo bdp 95 to use for cd play back since it seems to have a really nice dac (SABRE32 Reference ES9018 from ESS Technology). I am currently using a denon dvd 2900 and a musical fidelity v-dacII with pangea p100 power supply. Any feedback is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
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Showing 2 responses by hphu

My head is in the cloud still after reading this post. Thank you all for your input. :) by the way!!
Ok. Assuming I have a great outboard Dac and want to invest in a CD transport. I know some of you rolling your eyes right now.....lol. I am a big fan of old tech and have found CDs sound great if the recording jives. 

Below is taken directly from the Cambridge Audio website:
Inside most transports, you’ll find:
  • A transformer for power
  • A laser to read the information from a disc
  • A motor to spin the CD at the right speed for the laser
  • A servo that operates the motor for how fast the CD spins under the laser
  • A CD tray to carefully align the disc with the motor and the laser
  • A digital output.

Correct me if I am wrong! Base on this information above, a CD transport doesn't have anything to do with the built-in clock, recock, converting the digital signal to Analog etc...purely carries digital signal to the Dac for processing...
1. Wouldn't it make sense to purchase a  decent unit without breaking one's bank account?
2. Why is it the more costly one such as Mark Levision no.37, for example, is justifiable purchase?

I am torn..inexpensive or expensive CD transport.....LOL.
Makes sense to pay for you get....😀. I think everyone agrees.
Falconquest, if you wouldn’t mind, what three transports do you own? Can you briefly describe each with its own sound signature just so I have an idea...Do you have a different Dac for each of the transports?