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Dedicated CD player vs. Universal Player

I've been thinking about getting a blu-ray player for video and replacing my Yamaha universal player with a dedicated cd player. Question is do universal players compromise the quality of redbook cd? I've heard pros and cons but wanted to get some opinions. Also, what might you recommend for a cd player $500.00 and under? Any sleepers out there?
Thanks!
beernut
beernut's avatar
beernut OP
276 posts
 
I use analog, I'm not a true home theater guy, still 2 channel stereo for my listening. My Yamaha universal has the Burr-Brown 24 bit chip set that I see in a lot of DAC's. I thought about the Oppo universal as an option as well. Hmmm.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
I would suggest an outboard DAC too. I think the technology for DAC's has moved ahead quite a bit in the last 5 yrs. A dac can be used for a computer based digital system as well, allowing you to eliminate the discs altogether. Don't spend money on another spinner.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Sorry, Cambridge DacMagic, or an MHDT Labs Paradisea
rotarius
426 posts
 
At the $500 price point, none of the DACs or cdps will be an upgrade to a universal player in the same price range. Subtle differences yes, upgrade no.
beernut's avatar
beernut OP
276 posts
 
Interesting input. I had toyed with the idea of a computer based source or perhaps a server of some sort. However, with 700+ cd's on hand, I can't see me spending the time transferring them to either. I was curious as to the point of dominishing returns, the DAC's in many players are cutting edge.
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