Best Sounding AVR+Source Player in Redbook CD Category under $3000? (1 Viewer)

[Jay_WJ]

This question may not be easy to answer. But I hope some of you can make good suggestions based on experience.

What is the best solution to equipments (AVR+source player) for a mainly CD listening system under $3000 (when street prices apply)?

I know that CD has an inherent limitation in its format. But I also have to admit that my music collection is mostly in CDs. I wouldn't care about connection method---whether digital or analog---as long as better results can be obtained. This means that it doesn't matter whether I use DAC on AVR or on a CD (or DVD) player. The player can be either a universal or dedicated CD player. In case I end up choosing a CD player, I can buy a separate $200-$300 DVD player for HT use.

I'm going to use these for 70% music and 30% movie in 18x26 space. I'll match these with my current Wharfedale Pacific speakers, but will consider an upgrade later. Below is a list of models I found worth considering.

AVR:
- Denon 3805,6 or 4806
- Pioneer Elite VSX-56TXi or VSX-59TXi (or the new 74TXVi)
- NAD T773 Receiver or T163/T973 pre-pro/power combo
- Outlaw Audio 990 pre-pro and a power amp combo

Source player:
- Denon DVD-2910 or 3910
- Pioneer Elite DV-45A or DV-59AVi
- NAD or Rotel's dedicated CD player
- Other universal or CD players I'm not aware of

I'd appreciate any comments or suggestions.

Jay from Columbus, Ohio

 

[Andrew Pratt]

My suggestion would be the Arcam AVR300 ($2K list) and the matching DV78 DVD/CD player ($1K list). Another solution would be to get the Jolida 100A tube CD player and pick up a cheaper DVD player for movies. The Jolida lists for $900 so with the various discounts I'm sure there would be room for a decent DVD player. I also sent you a PM.

 

[Jay_WJ]

Thanks, Andrew. I read some good reviews on Arcam's AV receiver and universal player. And I know some of its CD players have been widely acclaimed. But actually I remember I was disappointed when I auditioned its entry-level integrated amplifier about 10 years ago. I don't know how good its current AVR model is. Is it that good? You probably have some experience with it, don't you?

 

[Andrew Pratt]

Yes I've spent some time with their line up and the new Arcam's are very well regarded...esp in Europe. For CD players though I'd lean towards the Jolida for a smoother sounding player but that's more personal preference. Sherwood-Newcastles R965 receiver is a beast as well that's well priced for the features it offers and its got the analog bypass mode that you'd need.