Cd players and DAC's

[Dave]

I'm sort of thinking about up-grading my digital realm.

Any opinions on whether I should up-grade my DAC (I'm using a Sony XA20ES) or buying a new SACD player?

Do they play regular cd's? or HDCD's?

Good brands?

TIA http://ubb.fanasylum.com/smiles/wavey.gif

[Gary]

I read that at the CES show, someone said that there are supposed to be quite a few new SACD players which will be released soon. Personally, I'm waiting. :)

Whats the worse that can happen? Sony will reduce their prices? :D

[pigmode]

The first thing you need to do is evaluate the quality of your transport. I guess you could get a DAC now, and (possibly) another tranport later, but where's the end? I have a hacked cdp already and somehow, I'm just not interested in hacks anymore.

I may want to get a new cdp as well. For me the way to go will be a slightly used Sony SCD777ES in absolutely pristine condition. There is also the Rega Jupiter.

[RicP]

Bottom line is what's your budget.

A new DAC will improve your CD listening by quite a bit, but you'll be unable to play SACD.

A new SACD deck gives you great SACD playback, possible great CD playback depending on model.

So what's your budget range and we can evaluate better from there. :)

[Dave]

I'm willing to spend around $1,000.00

[pigmode]

Originally posted by Dave
I'm willing to spend around $1,000.00

The used SCD777ESs are going for about 1600 at Audiogon. I would wait a few months. You'll want great redbook playback, and you know Steve will be doing SACDs sooner or later.