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Get a new CD player or external DAC?

Currently my digital sources are Cambridge Audio 540C V2 and Squeezebox (SB3) connected to Krell KAV-400xi with Sonus Faber Concertino Domus speakers.

I would like to upgrade my digital source, i.e. CA 540C V2, something puzzle me whether should i get a new CD player or external DAC with budget of USD 1,500?

I wish to get advise from you and your recommendation either CD player or external DAC.

Advantage of external DAC will be i can connect my the other digital source, i.e. SB3.

Thanks in advance.
auronthas
chewy
7 posts
 
I'm having pretty good luck with Cambridge 840c. Using it as both CDP and DAC for xm, at a cost of $950 on agon. However if your CDP is in good shape I would think $1500 would get you a better sounding stand alone DAC(used).
mimberman
299 posts
 
Do you listen to the SB or CD more? If you listen to the SB a lot, then I think getting a DAC would be a more versatile choice. If you like your cambridge gear, then you could get their new DAC (the magic I think it's called?) from Audio Advisor or another dealer and evaluate it, that way if you don't love it you can return it. I have a Bel Canto DAC 3 and love it, but if you're budget is around 1500 there are a lot of choices, including the New DAC from Bryston, the Benchmark, PS Audio, etc.
tobias
1,534 posts
 
A great standalone DAC, and more musical to my ear than the Benchmark, is the Apogee Mini-DAC. However you can't get it new with USB any more, you have to go FireWire. If you want USB you have to find it used.

One more thing: the quality of your transport and cable is very important. If you get a DAC worth $1500, you will need a good digital cable (at least a VH Audio cryo Pulsar 1.5m long) and then, your Cambridge player will show what made it an entry-level buy. I wouldn't count on being happy with that combination for long.

If you decide to upgrade your CD player, the best one I know at your price (for a new unit) is the JAS Audio Musik 1.2.
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