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Upgrade Source?

My system consiosts of Harbeth Super HL5 speakers, Pathos MKII Classic integrated and denon DVD 291o for source. With both the speakers and the integrated I noticed huge improvement( from Klipsch Heresy and Creek 5350Se). Now I am thinking about source upgrade and wondering if I will see the same noticeable improvement.

I would like a player for both SACD and Redbook but don't care to connect to my video. I have read about Ayre C5xe, Cary 306 SACD, and some modded Denon players. I am fairly new to the audiophile thing and would appreciate your advice.
chrispumpelly
jax2
3,031 posts
 
Modwright Sony 999, or 9000 (if you don't mind not playing CD-r/rw), each with full mods go for around $1600-2k used. Highly recommended. Dan's Sony 9100 would also be worth considering, if budget is not of concern, as would APL Denon 3910.

Marco
warrenh's avatar
warrenh
2,286 posts
 
The Exemplar Denon 3910 as far as modded players go. Have seen them used for $3k. Sacd/DVD-A and Redbook and video too. Worth it at $5k, brand spanking new, as well.

warren :)
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I agree with Jax2's suggestions.

I have owned a Modwright Sony 999ES, Exemplar Denon 3910 and APL Denon 3910. The Modwright is wonderfully musical and perhaps a tad romantic. The Exemplar is incisive, accurate and a labor of love. The APL Denon 3910 makes live music come to life in your listening room. I have heard nothing better including a few digital players that retail for $10,000+.

Depending on your taste and system tonality, they are all worthy of consideration. If money is no object, I rank them 1) APL Denon 3910, 2) Modwright Sony 999ES, 3)Exemplar Denon 3910.

If money is an object, I recommend the Modwright Sony 999ES. I have heard nothing that I prefer within $3000 of it's $1600 price on the used market.
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