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Linn Ikemi CD Player vs. Other Lower Cost Options

I am considering replacing my Meridian 508.20 CD player with another unit. The 508.20 CD player is connected to a Jeff Rowland Concentra integrated amplifier and ProAc 2.5 Speakers. I heard the Meridian 588 vs. the Ikemi and I liked the Linn (much better). I heard the Wadia 301 and found it too bright (possible setup problem). I liked the Rega Jupiter also but when compared to the Ikemi, the Linn was the winner (for my ears). The Ayre CX7 is an option that I need to listen to. Since the Linn Ikemi is expensive, does anyone have a recommendation for a similar high quality CD player than the Linn Ikemi but at a lower cost (like under $2,000)? For the cost and value, is the better option to upgrade my 508.20 to 508.24? Comments and suggestions are requested.
hgeifman
hgeifman OP
1,193 posts
 
Thanks for the above info. Do you have more info on Linn's universal players scheduled for later this year?
goose
364 posts
 
Hello,

I have bought a "used" Cary 303 player from audiogon. I listened to the Linn Ikemi, Rega Planet and the top of the line Rotel and thought the Cary was superior. More open and had a bigger sound stage than the Rotel. The lower end was better than the Ikemi. Just my opinion.
morasp
48 posts
 
Linn has announced two models one less than $5k and one less than $10k. Due out later this year. They had a static display at one of the shows earlier this year but that's about it.
hgeifman OP
1,193 posts
 
I have had no luck selling my Meridian 508.20 and I was not willing to give the unit away. So, I decided to upgrade my Meridian 508.20 to 24 bit status. The unit was shipped to Meridian for the upgrade and the expected turn around time is 4 weeks (including the shipping time). Thanks again for all your above comments.
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