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"Warm" CD player...on a budget.

I can't take it anymore. My CDs sound way too harsh with my Pioneer DV-343 DVD player serving as a transport and my Denon 5800 serving as the DAC. I need something that sounds warm and smooth, but I don't think I can afford to spend more than $500. I've been eyeing the Cambridge Audio D300SE and D500SE models, but won't really have an opportunity to listen to them prior to purchase due to the lack of a local dealer. I've also heard that an Ah! Toejb player can really sing, but I'm nervous about getting anything that has tubes that might or might not need to be replaced in the future.

Who wants to point me in the path of CD righteousness, keeping the budget in mind?
cjcerny
subaruguru
1,353 posts
 
Want my upgraded (new analogue stage) Rotel 855 and Neuance Alpha iso-shelf? Great combo. $350 shipped. You won't be disappointed.
Good luck. Ern
mcp1
41 posts
 
A friend has the Ah Tjoeb and it sounds very nice for the buck - smooth and clean. As for changing the tubes, it's not a big deal, and as others mentioned, you may actually want to to get the sound you want (different brands of tubes sound COMPLETELY different). If not tubes. try looking at used Meridians (I have a 506-20) they have a really nice, balanced sound.
sean
6,229 posts
 
Bradz was correct. The non 24/96 Cal DAC's sound notably warmer and smoother than the newer versions. Both can sound quite good but which one works best would be up to personal tastes and how the rest of the system is set up. Sean
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bonjo
8 posts
 
California Audio DX-2: warm, passionate with rich midrange and very smooth treble. Can be found used for about $300 - 35O. Definately worth the money.
rfox
4 posts
 
Hello,
Any used Meridian CD player (206, 208) would likely fit your needs. Or perhaps one of Meridian's older DAC's (203, 263, 563) can be purchased inexpensively and mate well with most digital outputs due to their low jitter reciever circuitry. Good Luck.
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