Hello to all, I’m looking to upgrade my CDP. I have a Rega Apollo right now which is fine player indeed, but I feel now is the right time to have a change.
I’ve got a few models In mind, Naim CD5si, Atoll CD200 signature, Teac VRDS-701 at 2k is a bit out of my budget, or possibly a second hand Naim CDx2. I’m not sure whether the CDx2 can be serviced by Naim but if it can then I’d definitely be interested in one.
Oh, just one more, Audiolab 9000T going into a Naim Nova perhaps?
The Naim CD5si would be my choice of player. It’s superb. The mech inside it is miles better than the one used in a CDX 2. I was never a fan of the VAM 1202 mech (too hit & miss). The Sanyo one inside the CD5si is far quicker at loading, track hopping, quieter, slicker, and just works.
There are two long threads on the topic of transports into Naim DACs or streamers that are very recent if searched. Audiolab, Rega, Cyrus, TEAC seem to be front runners. I’m partial to the TEAC simply because I have other items on the range and know the build quality is impeccable. A second hand Luxman D-N150 would also be a formidable source (again biased because I have one). New they are over budget but have been around long enough for bargains to appear.
I no longer have a CD player but the final one I had before ditching CD was the Roksan Caspian M2. It was superb. They can be picked up at great prices these days and perform way ahead of their price point.
Saturn Mk 3 (which I have). Sounds very good and you can also use the DAC to connect the TV (or other digital sources) to your system if that’s a consideration.
Just done a quick search on the web to see who still makes CD players now that Naim have only one model and Linn don’t make any.
Teac - 10
Cyrus - 5
Denon - 4
Marantz - 6
Mark Levinson - 2
Audiolab - 5
NAD - 2
Cambridge Audio -3
Luxman - 9
McIntosh - 5
It appears that there is still a number of models being produced to support the format. As with all manufacturers, there are models and price ranges to suit all budgets. However, what the synergy is with Naim, I can comment on.
I have a Bel Canto. Transport, but by far the best digital source I’ve had, combined with the Auralic Altair electronics. I had a Naim 5si prior to this and it was good.
I am a CDX2 user and I liked the sound more than a CD5si. I bought it preloved about 2 or 3 years ago and the seller had sent it to Naim who put a new laser in it! There was a receipt from Naim. Really sounds good, they did a great job. Perhaps this was one of the last suitable lasers they had.
