I agree that an external DAC would be the way to go. Use the DVD player as transport. There is a SCHiit Bitfrost w/uber analog upgrade for sale here on AG, $290 I believe. Since you don't require USB input, you could search for an older very high quality DAC which could be purchased for a fraction of the original cost.
Recommendations for used CD player
I'm looking to improve my sound by adding a CD player to my system. I'm currently now just using a Yamaha DVD player along with a Yamaha Aventage home theater receiver (which uses
ESS Technology ES9006 SABRE
DACs). I use the receiver as a pre/pro with a Threshold S500/II amp and B&W 802 Series 2 speakers.
Right now I really like my sound and I've read these DACs are fairly high quality, but wasn't sure if I could get improved sound by adding a used, higher end CD player and possibly outboard DAC.
No SACD needed, my budget is about $400-500.
Thanks.
Right now I really like my sound and I've read these DACs are fairly high quality, but wasn't sure if I could get improved sound by adding a used, higher end CD player and possibly outboard DAC.
No SACD needed, my budget is about $400-500.
Thanks.
- ...
- 31 posts total
The Schiit Uber is up for bid at $290, but would be an excellent DAC to suit your needs. http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/2014/03/schiit-audio-bifrost-uber-w-gen-2-usb-dac-review/ Or one of the Schiit Bifrost models for a great price new, with return policy... http://schiit.com/products/bifrost |
Hi All, Thanks for all the input and advice. I just realized my Yamaha blu-ray player only has HDMI out, so I'll buy a CD player/transport and an external DAC. For the DAC, I'm leaning towards the PS Audio Digital Link III that is for sale here for $299.00. It gets great reviews and I like the price point. I can also use it for my itunes library remotely located in a PC but wired to the system. I am receiving a pair of B&W 801 Series 2 speakers today and am very excited. Although they probably won't offer too many differences than my 802 Series 2, it has motivated me to consider source upgrades. I love music and high quality audio, but am and always have been on a very limited budget. I am buying equipment that I lusted for back in high school and college. My dream amp was always a big Threshold- last year I purchased a mint S500/II and it changed everything. I know my listening environment's room size, low ceiling height , and wall to wall carpeting limits how good the sound can get, but I will try some modest upgrades. |
I once owned the DL III. Good DAC for the money. However the USB input was not asynchronous. I used it with a USB/SPDIF converter. I sold it because I needed 2 coax inputs as I also wanted to include a transport. Cambridge Audio makes a transport that seems highly regarded here on AG and retails for $500. Though I use a computer as a server most often, I am considering the purchase of one myself as I sometimes like to spin a disk. The idea of a dedicated transport, as opposed to a player, appeals to me. |
- 31 posts total