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Sony SCD-C333ES a good buy?

I have been considering moving into the wonderful world of SACD after finding out this player can be had for only about $600 (don't ask me where =). I've read some reader-reviews in the April issue of Stereophile, and it seems that it doesn't touch the 777... but at this price, it costs less than 1/3 the cheapest new 777 I've seen online. Even though it's not the best CDP out there, is it a great buy at around $600? Right now I have a Marantz CD-6000 OSE (un-modded). Thanks in advance!

Dan
grossdp
tommart
72 posts
 
www.JandR.com
jrdaf44
1 posts
 
I have checked janr.com and they do not carry this model at any price. When did you see it there? John
grumpybb's avatar
grumpybb
110 posts
 
I couldn't find it on their site either, but I heard that you have to call them and ask for the price. Could someone please enlighten us.
bornie's avatar
bornie
69 posts
 
The SCD 333ES is even a better buy AFTER modifications are made by Richard Kern. When compared against the 333ES's big brothers (777ES & SCD-1) the 333ES is harsh, serves up a narrow soundstage, and demonstrates a lean low-end.
If you like the convenience of a changer, that offers sound quality equiv to the very best SACD/Redbook CD, this player is a bargain and best-buy, after Richard Kern tweeks it!

Jack
tommart
72 posts
 
I hear the 333ES is being discontinued. You may find it at www.oade.com. In July, Sony is coming out with a C222ES, which will be stereo/multichannel and with a list price ($800) that's $400 cheaper than the 333ES list price. I have no idea if it will equal the sound of the 333ES. I also don't know if there'll be a multichannel version of the 333.

Seems that a strange time to discontinue the U.S.'s lowest priced SACD player, but there must be a reason. It only started selling around Thanksgiving. That's a very, very short time to sell/discontinue something. It wasn't the performance. It's a very good piece.
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