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Meridian 508.20 or Wadia 830 or Wadia 301????

Hello folks

Well, what to do??

Not heard the Meridian stuff at all, but heard lot's of top Wadia, but not the budget player 830 or 301.

Well, I'm planning to buy a really nice CDP suited for my TAD horn system at a time.

For you who do not know this stuff, I must say that I need a very very snooth sounding CDP analog sound. The sound must be as huge as possebly with good bass respons.

I need no upfront sound or details!!! This is horns!!!

I've seen that some people out there compare Meridian 508.20 with Levinson sound which I like.

Any advise, let me know. Please notice again that sound should be big, maybe a bit bold, smooth smooth and palpable.

thanks for any time you might use on this question.

TADMAN
tadman
stevecham
3,298 posts
 
You know, you just might consider the Jolida 100 for well under a $1000. Talk about musical sweetness. I got one for a second all tube based system and when I directly compared it to the Meridian, I have to say, it comes darn close in terms of sonic quality, perhaps lacking just a little bit on the dynamic range side of things, but very sweet musically and very satisfying. For me a real keeper and possibly the best value out there for an under $1K CDP.
guylan
10 posts
 
Tadman,

I'd look for an old DPA T-1 transport and PDM 2 dac OR an Apogee DA1000E-20 with a Theta Data Basic II transport.

This combos will give you what you're looking for.
cleopatra52's avatar
cleopatra52
81 posts
 
If you do decide on the Meridian, definitely go for the 508.24 over the .20. The 24 is the better sounding unit, IMHO.
tadman OP
13 posts
 
Hello everybody

So much thanks for your time. I'll go for the recommendation of member Stevecham and go for the best deal. I've decided for Meridian 508.20 or the 24 bit. Or/and Wadia for a good price. Maybe a Theta Basic as well since I've heard the Pearl with Wadia 27ix and that was very convincing IMO.

Thanks a lot, Tadman
creeper
251 posts
 
I might be chiming in a bit late here, but this is what I'd suggest. Find a Meridian 506.20 which can be picked up used for well under a grand. I listened to quite a few machines and settled on it because of it's ease and warmth. Great detail and air without being etched, bottom end is tight without being overpowering. If you feel like it's too warm, I've read posts at several different forums indicating that upgrading it to 506.24 tones down the warmth and trumps up detail and bass. Just my two cents.

Curious though, if you already picked something up, what did you go for?
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