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Mod for Sony SCD-1 or Different Player?

So it's possibly upgrade time and my system is shuffling around. I'm planning on a Pathos Logos or Inpol2 (depending on funds, and how much I like the new Sim i-7 or the BAT VK-300XSE) to mate with my Totem Forests, and at some point want to upgrade my Sony SCD-1. I'm debating over whether to go the mod route, or to get a different player alltogether. I love the sony's build quality, and the SACD is great as it stands, but the redbook playback is a little thin, and the load time is kind of a drag.

I'm probably (re)opening what is a can of worms here, but what do you guys think? I own some SACD titles, but do most of my listening in redbook. I'd like to keep it under a grand for the time being (but would love to hear about more expensive options).

For you SCD-1 loyals, what mods do you recommend (I'm assuming modwright will be in there somewhere) and what can I expect for redbook playback improvement?

Otherwise, if I decide to sell the Sony, what would be a good mate for the above setup (using Analysis plus cables and listening to all types of music) within the 2-3 grand range?

Thanks for your help guys (and gals).
mimberman
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I don't have any direct experience with these, but from user comments I've read, and from reviews I've seen, if I were looking for a DAC, I'd investigate the Benchmark DAC-1 ($975 new/$850 used), or a Stello DA-220 . The Stello gets no love from the Audiogon crowd, but take a look at the review...

These are both more cost effective than modifications, IMO, and allow you to maintain the SCD-1 in stock form. Of course, you won't be hearing the benefits of what mods could do to the SCD-1 transport, but the DAC is a good place to start, and you can probably experiment without taking a big hit upon re-sale.
slowhand
605 posts
 
I have the Vacuum State mod on my SCD-1 which is an Allan Wright mod. This mod is different than most in that it has a it's own connections for the mod. You can either run the stock connections for the stock sound or the mod connections for the modded sound. In this way I can hear the differences by A B comparison.

There really is no comparison. The VSEI mod just kills the stock sound. I do most of my listening to redbook also. The sound is much more extended top to bottom. The top end of the stock player is somewhat harsh sounding once you have heard the VSEI mod. This mod is very well regarded on Audio Asylum, as you can check for yourself. You can contact me if you want the names of the people that Allan Wright has to do the mods in the states.
mimberman OP
299 posts
 
Anyone else heard the Stello DA-220 with the SCD-1?
gmorris
351 posts
 
I just completed a modification of my SCD-1 with the Audiocom Superclock3/PSU3 upgrade by Reference Audio Mods.
The sonic improvements are superlative. the sound is much more analog-like (smoother more relaxed) with great retreival of detail, especially spatial cues and better definition across the audio spectrum. The upgraded SCD-1 closes the gap with my Oracle Delphi MKV SE, Graham Phantom tonearm and Helikon cartridge. The upgrade is a no-brainer. The only issue is the long term reliabilty of the clock.
mimberman OP
299 posts
 
Thanks for the input Gmorris. I haven't done much research on the mods other than what I've read on Agon and Audio Asylum (so I guess I have done some research, heh). I can't seem to find pricing for the Superclock3/PSU3 upgrade. What are your reservations about the clock's life? I think for the meantime I might go for the less intrusive upgrade, meaning, since I'm already upgrading my amp section, I'll need to get used to the new sound, which should already be an improvement. I'm guessing I'll go with an outboard DAC for redbook first, and if I'm still not happy I can always go the mod route, but maybe it makes sense to exhaust all my other options (DAC, ICs, PCs, vibration control) before doing something so drastic. I also don't think I'll sell the SCD-1 either way. It's jus too m'f'n good in most ways, and I can't see being as pleased with anything around it's price range, and doubt I can ever find something so well built. My friend's MF tri-vista SCD is nice, and quite a bit faster, but I don't think it's still up to snuff. So now I guess it's off to find a DAC?
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