Sony 9000 ES SACD output stage cold


Ok you guys, I've now got OVER 300 hours on my SACD section and the sound STILL is not as good as the digital output decoded with my MSB link dac 2! I even bought 2 more SACD's to see if they were any better than the Sony sampler, no improvement! Unless there is something wrong with my 9000ES the SACD quality is a joke!! Any Ideas? I'm using Harmonic Technology interconnects & digital cable feeding a VAC Standard ltd. ed. preamp driving a VAC PA 100/100 all tube power amp connected to Von Schweikert VR5 speakers.
128x128darrell
Well, I probably have only 175-200 hours on the SACD side of my 9000ES, but right out of the box it was warmer, smoother than redbook cd's thru my PT P1A/P3A (with Dan Wright mods). Have Llano Design Trinity 200 hybrid amp, and have used both my SF Line 2 SE and Proceed AVP as preamp. I wonder if you got a lemon?
Darrell- I recently had a similar post. As Rrsclyde correctly states, the sound is indeed warmer, smoother. (PT P1A/P3A? this is a reasonably priced DAC I think so i assume he agrees the 777 on redbook is weak) It is also less open and transparent with poor imaging. I think the people who like the player have systems that needed "taming". (probably solid state!) I had an MSB II also and it is noticeably better on redbook CD- NO DOUBT ABOUT IT. It sounds like there is less between the CD and the speakers. I don't know anything about the electronics but apparently the analog output stage on the 777 is very complex. A bunch of op amps and resistors... whatever (?) The MSB is a simpler circuit and sounds like it. I can see how the SONY will improve some systems, but Sony players are not meant for purists. I am optimistic however about SACD software and looked into tweaking the player. Apparently it is very hard to work on and shipping it is obviously a disaster. I am in NY- let me know if you come up with an idea.
Sorry! I have a 777, and the post is about a 9000. Probably similar sound however.