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What is the best CD player direct into one's amp?

Since I don't listen to FM (poor reception) and seldom use my vinyl (too noisy), what red book player has the best analogue volume section and sound for direct connection to my Threshold 4000 class A amp? I am looking for something in the $1000-2000 range on audiogon. The other possibility is to slightly warm up and expand the soundstage of my maggie 1.6 system with a tube preamp and continue using my very musical McCormack DAC-1 deluxe. Thanks
55dok
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Use DAC-1 you're using. Less likely you'll find what you're looking for...
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drubin
3,240 posts
 
I use a modified Marantz player from APL Hi-Fi, who are famous for their pricey modified Denon and Esoteric players. $1100 complete for the Marantz. Sounds wonderful direct into my Rowland 201 monoblocks.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Sorry to digress, but a 4000A, now that really is a classic. I used one into Dayton-Wright XG-8s when the high end was in its infancy. I think that Nelson actually designed the 400A, 800A and 4000A on the Daytons, since they pretty much blew everything else up. Nice amp, a real classic, glad to hear that it is still in service. Oh BTW many of the Wadia players are specifically designed for direct connection to amps.
mechans
2,999 posts
 
Let me know when you find out my ancient Audio Aero Prima CD was used that way and just crumped again . That Marantz sounds interesting for the Money. I can tell yout the Consonance is an underated product and it does sound good, there are several variations to choose from. There is an Agon dealer who specializes in their products Quest for Sound the dealer is a great guy.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
4,637 posts
 
I have owned the Prima, Resolution Audio Opus 21, Quad,Consonance 2.2 Ref and the Muse Thalia. The Muse was the best by a good margin. Hard to find used with the volume option. It was almost as good a an Audio Aero Capitole Sig that I A/B'd with it. Very close indeed.

Very few know how food this CD/DVD player is. The Resolution Audio is also great, but costs $2500 used.

Bill
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