In regard to the Modwright Sony 999ES it is
intriguing indeed. Interesting too is the overwhelming response to this
CD player. When I see this I think two things-
1) that this CD player is the one to get
and/or
2) I have ran into a marketing campaign.
You are wise to be suspicious and cautious. Speaking for myself, I have
heard the Modwright Sony 999ES in my system against an Exemplar
Denon 3910, Electrocompaniet EMC 1-UP, APL Denon 3910, APL Phillips
SACD 1000 and Marantz SA-14. The APL Denon 3910 has been the best
in my system, and it costs $6500. The Modwright Sony 999ES is tied for
second with the Exemplar Denon 3910. They are both excellent. The
Modwright is a touch warmer sounding than the Exemplar.
But, you were asking about machines under $2k, and the Exemplar does
not qualify. Even used, this player is $3500.
Two local audiophiles each own a Modwright 999ES in systems
quite different from mine, and quite different from the other. The
Modwright sounds excellent in both systems, as it did in mine.
I have absolutely no relationship with Modwright other than appreciating
Dan's products. As I said, IMO, it's unlikely a used Modwright Sony
999ES for $1500 can be touched by another player under $2000. It's the
closest thing to an audio no-brainer that I know.
Modwright has a new modification for the Sony 9100ES, which Dan
claims is even better than the 999ES. I have heard the new player only
briefly at a show with unfamiliar gear. It's $3500. Yes, Modwright has a
preamp. Another very good product, and one that is priced at a real-
world level. This probably sounds like marketing, but I'm simply
answering your question. I'd suggest doing a thread search for more
info.
Finally, I would think your 16 wpc Consonance Cyber 211 monos would
be enough to drive the DB-99, but you might get more drive from a
push-pull KT88 amp.
