SACD player For CD Play BAck

simphiwes

Do normal CD's sound any different or "better" or worse on SACD players, are they the same? Is It anything to loose sleep over?

John K.

Sim, CDs require a laser operating at a wavelength of 780nm for optimum reproduction, while SACDs(plus DVDs and DVD-As) require a 650nm laser. Players have dual lasers which operate at both of the required wavelengths and read all of the discs optimally. We often read of "dedicated" players which can read only CDs being better, but this is another of the numerous audio mythologies which have no factual basis. There's no technical reason that this would be true and properly controlled blind listening tests show no difference.

reeltrouble1

Yes there are differences between SACD players for Redbook playback. Just the same as there are differences between any source player. A good machine starts with a well laid out printed circuit board and works from there, if the circuit is not well designed you are behind the 8-ball to begin with. Then the quality of the caps, resistors, power supply's and so on. In some cases certain companies will do hand point to point wiring going to extremely tight tolerences.

You might want to look for a machine that utilizes discreet circuity for SACD and Redbook.

Remember each musical rig is unique based upon the room environment and other associated equipment it is used in and with. It is truley a system of interdependant parts, change any one of the parts and you have changed the system, whether for better, worse, or so small a change you cant tell, it is still changed.

RT1

sucks2beme

John K. wrote:

Sim, CDs require a laser operating at a wavelength of 780nm for optimum reproduction, while SACDs(plus DVDs and DVD-As) require a 650nm laser. Players have dual lasers which operate at both of the required wavelengths and read all of the discs optimally. We often read of "dedicated" players which can read only CDs being better, but this is another of the numerous audio mythologies which have no factual basis. There's no technical reason that this would be true and properly controlled blind listening tests show no difference.

There is a wave of DIY guys modding players. Different chipsets, power supply upgrades etc. , all make a difference. Better players use better components. Often the dedicated players have this because that what buyers demand. A minivan and Corvette both get you to work. But they were built with different design goals. There is no reason an all in one player couldn't sound as good as a dedicated redbook player, but often price point
goals require cutting a few corners.

simphiwes

I am thinking along the line of doing a 2 channel rig, not too expensive, i was wondering if you think the following rig will do me justice.

Marantz CD5001ose and PM7001 KI with B&W DM602 S3 or maybe DM603 S3.
or Marantz SACD - SA11-S1. i will proberbly never play any SACD's but it would be nice to know that i can if i want to.

Dennis Gardner

I would save $$$ and get the Marantz SA8260. Solid playback on both sources. Unless you get substantially more revealing gear downstream, this model bridges the performance gap that most universal players have. It really isn't one or the other with this piece as it does both well. Look up some reviews on it.

If you don't have either player, this is a no brainer for me. The 8260 will beat separate $300 players all day long for the $$$