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Will a more resolving CDP improve my system?

Hi. I have a fairly decent system that I have built up recently-Soliloquy 6.3 speakers, Conrad-Johnson PV10a preamp and MF-2200 amp, and an Arcam CD73T. I was looking to maybe purchase a nicer CDP (like a Consonance Reference 2.2) that was more resolving, with better detail. But, I am wondering-will a more improved CDP make much of a difference in my system? Or, is it too low-end to benefit much from an improved CDP? Everyone I hear raving about high-end CDP's seem to have high-end parts elsewhwere-my system's value at retail is about $7K. Should I spend another $500 on a CDP, or elsewhere (preamp is the next obvious upgrade, as is upgrading the amp with current parts). I live in a remote area and don't have the luxury of taking units home and demoing them. Thanks!

Chiho
chiho
sufentanil's avatar
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sufentanil
776 posts
 
In my experience, the CJ PV10a is a very lush, warm preamp that sacrifices detail for warmth and richness. From a detail perspective, my sense is that it is the preamp that's the limiting factor here, and a more resolving CD player won't necessarily translate into the same degree of detail in the end.

It's just something to think about, anyway.

Michael
newbee
4,093 posts
 
IMHO you are at a point in time when you should make a serious commitment to finding a pre-amp that is tonally neutral, well balanced, revealing, and yet retain liquidity. This is a component that you should be able to live with for many years. Once you have done that you will have the platform for judging and selecting all of your other components. Don't try to cheap out on this item - it will pay off in the long run (believe it or not, I'm running with a 20+ year old pre-amp thats still competitive and sought after today!) CJ has some nice highend preamps (used) that could fit the bill, as could many others.
avguru
116 posts
 
Newbee,

While its true the pre-amp may be limiting your system, there is no doubt a high resolution cdp will still improve your system. In my experience speakers are always first in importance and the source (i.e cdp, turntable, etc) is second.

Good luck!

AVGURU
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