"Old" vs. "new" digital equipment

I listen to a lot of orchestral music and, like you, noticed the grain in massed strings, and the congestion, exactly as you describe, and it began to drive me nuts. My system (at least an earlier version) was pretty similar to yours, except it started with a Linn CD12, and I used various different pre-amps...but same speakers and amp (except mine is a MK III).

I became more or less obsessed with trying to straighten out the string sound (some of which is reported in other threads). I thought the CD12 would do it, and was disappointed, etc., etc. Bottom line: I didn't get the grain and congestion under control to my satisfaction until finally (after 15+ years of disuse) I re-habbed my Linn LP12, bought a new Koetsu black, got an EAR phono-pre (can't rememeber the number -- the $1500 model) and started playing Decca, EMI, Phillips and other well-made Lps (including many Speakers Corner Lps).

Probably not really the answer you want to hear, but...And I should add that one of the CDP's I'm still working with is an EMM CDSA (which retrieved noticeably more info than the Linn CD12). But massed strings still don't (to me) sound quite right on it, compared to Lps. I think it must have to do with the limitations of the CD medium.

I did, however, just a few days ago order an EAR Acute CDP, based upon all the positive reports of its "analog-like" sound, and based upon my very positive reaction to the EAR phono-pre. I did that because in the last 6 months, I've hardly touched my CD collection, and I need some way to enjoy them. Too much good material out there...

(Isn't it kind of annoying that you spend a bunch of money on getting better and better gear, only to find that, at a certain point, maybe you're almost getting too much information?)

Bikecommuter, take a look at my thread entitled: Reference DACS: An overall perspective along with my reviews of the Accustic Arts DACS ( MK4 and the Tube Hybrid reference) for lots of details concerning new/old digital front ends and the difference in DACS sonicly.

Eweedhome,

You're right -- not the answer I was hoping for, but one I suspected might come. Thanks for the response.

Teajay,

Will do. Thanks.

Any other thoughts or ideas out there?

David

If you are looking for the best digital playback definitely the Nova Physics Memory Player is a must hear. Short of that a Raysonic 168 with cryoed NOS tubes, and Herbie Tube Dampers is an outstanding compromise. And a mere $2500!

With CD being the "Flawed" source it is, it is amazing how much money we spend trying to make a format better. I know I have over the years. The problem is, as you go up in quality, the more flaws become apparent. If you offer every last degree of transparency in a player, you might not like what you ultimately hear. I suppose the best players are for the best CD's only. Otherwise, we have surpassed the quality of the source itself (and for what?)
With that said, some CD's just don't sound natural and all the CD players in the world are not going to change that.
Contrary to what a lot believe, SACD is the better format and strings sound realistic (of course they are poor SACD's too.) Go for pure DSD. I know SACD is a niche market but there's still a lot out there available and it does sound better (lot of the music you are refering to here.)
Otherwise, good vinyl is the only way to go.
I think you will chase your tail and spend a lot of money with CD and never get where you want to be.
I used the Vandersteen 3a Sigs with a pair of 2WQ's for years and your system is very good. My suggesdtion would be to upgrade your preamp to a ARC Reference II or III. I personally feel it would be money well(better) spent (other than on a CD player.) You would be surprised at the improvement over the older ARC preamp.
If you MUST go for a new CD player, I would spring for a Wadia 861 or 861se. They go around less than 5k for the 861 and a touch over for the se model(which is a substantial upgrade.) If they don't sound correct, you're just out of luck with CD!