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Has CD playback evolved in the last 5 years?

A recent thread asked if an older, inexpensive player should be repaired or replaced; and that has me asking the question - has cd playback technology evolved to the point where it's now prudent to replace older (say 5 years or more) players because of advancements in technology? I have an older Arcam FMJ 23 that sounds really nice, but I'm wondering if new players or DACs will give me better sonics than my Arcam. (I live in an area where I can't audition equipment very easily)
rockyboy
edorr
714 posts
 
I can personally attest that conversion of PCM two 2xDSD as is done in the EMM Labs (and Playback Designs I believe), has taken CD playback to a different level (for me anyway). If this level with attainable 5 years ago, and if so at what pricepoint I do not know. Also don't know how othe expensive DACs stack up against this technology.
edorr
714 posts
 
Audiogon acting funny. I did not post this twice.
tmsorosk
1,013 posts
 
I've noticed big sonic improvements in the last 2 to 3 years, so I would have to say there as been a big evolution in the past five. To bad you can't audition some of the latest digital gear it really is getting sonically impressive. If your happy with the sound of your Arcam I would recommend an upgrade in that line.
rockyboy OP
335 posts
 
Will have an opportunity in a couple weeks to audition a new Exemplar modded Oppo. But within the last year I've gone to wireless streaming of my 800 plus cd library and find it very convenient. Therefore, the bar is set very high for the Exemplar. It will have to be very magical before I spend the money and replace my Arcam.
doggiehowser
672 posts
 
I agree with Edorr. I own an XDS1 and an MPS-5 both of which convert PCM to DSD and they both sound superb.

I do think they have taken CD playback to the next level.

But I still keep my Ayon CD5S. There's a time and place for everything and there's something right about the quad PCM1704UK (even if it's an old R2R chip). It's not as detailed or as resolving but with the tube output, it's a really good alternative sometimes.
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