Breaking in my first SACD Player
Ern Dog
Posts: 2,237
So I finally decided to see what all this SACD business is about. I've been planning this purchase for the past year and have about 6 SACD's when I bought my Sony XA-5400es SACD player. I bought it used and it was the player used in a 2nd system, so it only 11 months old and only has 200 hours on it. Different sources say it takes about 300-500 hours to fully break in.
It's day 2 and my first impression is that it is more detailed than my Bada Hd-22. The Sony sounds a bit forward in it's presentation and the bass sounds a tad looser than what I'm used to. I'm hoping this balances out more as it breaks in. Even with these minor nuances, it is breathing new life into my redbook cd's.
There is definitely a noticeable improvement with SACD's. Music sounds even more vibrant.
This is making me realize what an exceptional value the Bada is- it may not be as detailed and sparkly at the top as the Sony, but it does mids and lows exceptionaly well.
Once it is broken in, I can fine tune it if necessary by changing different power cords, different IC's or role different tubes in my Modwright tube preamp. I feel pretty hopefull that it will be a keeper, but time will tell.
More to come as it fully breaks in.
It's day 2 and my first impression is that it is more detailed than my Bada Hd-22. The Sony sounds a bit forward in it's presentation and the bass sounds a tad looser than what I'm used to. I'm hoping this balances out more as it breaks in. Even with these minor nuances, it is breathing new life into my redbook cd's.
There is definitely a noticeable improvement with SACD's. Music sounds even more vibrant.
This is making me realize what an exceptional value the Bada is- it may not be as detailed and sparkly at the top as the Sony, but it does mids and lows exceptionaly well.
Once it is broken in, I can fine tune it if necessary by changing different power cords, different IC's or role different tubes in my Modwright tube preamp. I feel pretty hopefull that it will be a keeper, but time will tell.
More to come as it fully breaks in.
Post edited by Ern Dog on
Comments
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Congrats...that is a nice Sony player....I'm thinking about one of those myself down the road--probably one that's been modded.
cnhCurrently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!
Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
[sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash] -
Nice. Congrats on the purchase. You may want to try tuning now. If it already had a few hundred hours on it, I doubt there will be an audible improvement after a few hundred more. That's assuming the previous owner meant 200hrs with music playing, not just being on.
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I would agree with organ. Hopefully cable will tame the highs. It has always been my opinion that Sony players were unbalanced with regard to presentation. There are people who mod those players that rave about them though. Congrats and good luck. Let us know what you do in working it all out!-Kevin
HT: Philips 52PFL7432D 52" LCD 1080p / Onkyo TX-SR 606 / Oppo BDP-83 SE / Comcast cable. (all HDMI)B&W 801 - Front, Polk CS350 LS - Center, Polk LS90 - Rear
2 Channel:
Oppo BDP-83 SE
Squeezebox Touch
Muscial Fidelity M1 DAC
VTL 2.5
McIntosh 2205 (refurbed)
B&W 801's
Transparent IC's -
Congrats on your new player! From what I've read it's Sony's best SACD/CD player to date...& that's saying a lot because their previous models were all top rated. It's on my radar vs having my Oppo 83 modded."2 Channel & 11.2 HT "Two Channel:Magnepan LRSSchiit Audio Freya S - SS preConsonance Ref 50 - Tube preParasound HALO A21+ 2 channel ampBluesound NODE 2i streameriFi NEO iDSD DAC Oppo BDP-93KEF KC62 sub Home Theater:Full blown 11.2 set up.
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The Modwright mod for this Sony is like $2,000 :eek: Here
That's a lot of coin for a mod- even more thant the player costs.
I considered getting a Modwright Oppo 83, but decided to go the Sony route instead. I also considered a Cambridge 840C, but then I loose the SACD feature.
Every new component I've added takes a few weeks or months of tweaking around until it is dialed in and I'm satisfied. Plus my ears and brain needs time to adjust to the increased resolution. It sounds like my redbook CD's have all been upgraded to SACD status with this Sony! -
If redbook CD's sound good you are off to a good start then. I really wish I could get my ears on one of these players.-Kevin
HT: Philips 52PFL7432D 52" LCD 1080p / Onkyo TX-SR 606 / Oppo BDP-83 SE / Comcast cable. (all HDMI)B&W 801 - Front, Polk CS350 LS - Center, Polk LS90 - Rear
2 Channel:
Oppo BDP-83 SE
Squeezebox Touch
Muscial Fidelity M1 DAC
VTL 2.5
McIntosh 2205 (refurbed)
B&W 801's
Transparent IC's -
Congrats for your entry into the SACD world!
The Modwright Platinum Truth mods are terrific!Carl -
The Modwright Platinum Truth mods are terrific!
+1 to that! Congrats on the SACD player!Salk SoundScape 8's * Audio Research Reference 3 * Bottlehead Eros Phono * Park's Audio Budgie SUT * Krell KSA-250 * Harmonic Technology Pro 9+ * Signature Series Sonore Music Server w/Deux PS * Roon * Gustard R26 DAC / Singxer SU-6 DDC * Heavy Plinth Lenco L75 Idler Drive * AA MG-1 Linear Air Bearing Arm * AT33PTG/II & Denon 103R * Richard Gray 600S * NHT B-12d subs * GIK Acoustic Treatments * Sennheiser HD650 * -
I hope to get one of those 5400ES some day when the price has come down. For now, my old SCD-C333ES is still kicking.For rig details, see my profile. Nothing here anymore...
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For now, my old SCD-C333ES is still kicking.
I have that old model as well and it is perfect for my needs. Love the sound it produces. I had tons of budget CD players over the years an I always go back to the Sony's.:cool: -
Welp, today I switched out the IC's. Took out the PNF's and put in some DH Labs- Dang it sounds sooooo good. I still have some Tung sol NOS tubes to role into the pre, but I'm not ready to do that yet.
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I have been using my XA5400ES for almost a year now. While it sounds great I really cannot remember if it sounds better now than it did a year ago. At least I know it doesn't sound worse.
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
I have been considering new Sony XA5400 SACD player as a replacement for my SC555ES beauty. However, lately there have been a great deal of buzz surrounding Oppo SE83 player with it's state of the art Sabre SACD DACS for two channels. It also has upgraded DAC for multichannel outputs (the dedicated two channel DAC is not used in that case unfortunately), which is important to me, since I prefer MCH SACD sound when available.
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I have the XA5400ES, and the original Oppo BD83. There are two points to keep in mind when comparing the two.
First, the Sony does one thing, and does it well. The Oppo does many things. I cannot comment on its CD/SACD quality since I only use it as a BR player, which it does well. Second, there is no comparison between the Sony and the Oppo in terms of build quality. The Sony wins hands-down.Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
I have the XA5400ES, and the original Oppo BD83. There are two points to keep in mind when comparing the two.
First, the Sony does one thing, and does it well. The Oppo does many things. I cannot comment on its CD/SACD quality since I only use it as a BR player, which it does well. Second, there is no comparison between the Sony and the Oppo in terms of build quality. The Sony wins hands-down.
That surprises me a little about build quality. Though as I have said, I have no experience with that Sony.
You might actually want to try the -83 for SACD sometime just to compare. I would be interested to hear your impressions.-Kevin
HT: Philips 52PFL7432D 52" LCD 1080p / Onkyo TX-SR 606 / Oppo BDP-83 SE / Comcast cable. (all HDMI)B&W 801 - Front, Polk CS350 LS - Center, Polk LS90 - Rear
2 Channel:
Oppo BDP-83 SE
Squeezebox Touch
Muscial Fidelity M1 DAC
VTL 2.5
McIntosh 2205 (refurbed)
B&W 801's
Transparent IC's -
Congrats!Linn AV5140 fronts
Linn AV5120 Center
Linn AV5140 Rears
M&K MX-70 Sub for Music
Odyssey Mono-Blocs
SVS Ultra-13 Gloss Black:D -
For what it's worth I've read user comparisons of Oppo SE 83 vs Sony 5400 and supposedly Oppo won hands down. On the other hand regular Oppo 83 was beaten by both Sony and Oppo SE players. That's through analogue outs of course.
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Update: Some things have smoothed out all on its own. The biggest improvement was switching out the PNF Icon IC's and using DH Labs Matrix instead. With the PNF's the bass sounded thin and veiled, but with the Matrix the bass just came alive. This was not a subtle improvement, more like night and day.
This is just more evidence about how Synergy with your IC's is so important. -
For what it's worth I've read user comparisons of Oppo SE 83 vs Sony 5400 and supposedly Oppo won hands down. On the other hand regular Oppo 83 was beaten by both Sony and Oppo SE players. That's through analogue outs of course.
You may be right but that is HARD to believe. If anyone knows 'anything' about SACD/CD tech it should be Sony. No? I have trouble believing all the Oppo hype--but then how would one ever settle that argument?
cnhCurrently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!
Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
[sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash] -
Update: Some things have smoothed out all on its own. The biggest improvement was switching out the PNF Icon IC's and using DH Labs Matrix instead. With the PNF's the bass sounded thin and veiled, but with the Matrix the bass just came alive. This was not a subtle improvement, more like night and day.
This is just more evidence about how Synergy with your IC's is so important.
Are these RCA or XLR? I am using Kimber Kable Hero XLRs with my 5400ES and am happy, but realize there is always something better out there.Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
For what it's worth I've read user comparisons of Oppo SE 83 vs Sony 5400 and supposedly Oppo won hands down. On the other hand regular Oppo 83 was beaten by both Sony and Oppo SE players. That's through analogue outs of course.
Does the Oppo 83SE have balanced outputs?Linn AV5140 fronts
Linn AV5120 Center
Linn AV5140 Rears
M&K MX-70 Sub for Music
Odyssey Mono-Blocs
SVS Ultra-13 Gloss Black:D -
Does the Oppo 83SE have balanced outputs?
No the Oppo BDP-83SE does not have balanced outputs.
However this is one of several options available through Modwright Instruments:
http://www.modwright.com/modifications/14
Full BALANCED (XLR) Stereo Only Mod with Master Clock upgrade (no clock in SE) = $1150 + shipping.
Add analog stage upgrade for Ctr, FL, FR, Surround L/R (RCA only) = $1495 total
Upgrade of stock power supplies.
Installation of Master Clock with Bursen Clock!(no clock in SE).
Installation of proprietary, dedicated analog power supply of our design.
Upgrade of Stereo Left and Right analog channels only with our discrete FET-based, fully balanced analog circuit.
Installation of Neutrick XLR outputs.
Shielding and damping mods to chassis and stock supplies. -
Are these RCA or XLR? I am using Kimber Kable Hero XLRs with my 5400ES and am happy, but realize there is always something better out there.
I'm using the RCA outputs. I have tried Hero RCA's and liked them until they got outed by the DH Labs. I don't have a balanced preamp. Have you noticed an improvement with using XLR ouput vs. RCA output on the Sony? -
I'm using the RCA outputs. I have tried Hero RCA's and liked them until they got outed by the DH Labs. I don't have a balanced preamp. Have you noticed an improvement with using XLR ouput vs. RCA output on the Sony?
I haven't bought any good RCAs to use with 5400ES, so I have never tried the RCA outputs. When I bought this, and my pre-amp, I was under the impression XLR was 'better' that RCA, but since then the issue has become confused now that I have learned most equipment that offers XLRs is not really balanced. I do like the solid feel, and the locking, XLR provides.Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
I haven't bought any good RCAs to use with 5400ES, so I have never tried the RCA outputs. When I bought this, and my pre-amp, I was under the impression XLR was 'better' that RCA, but since then the issue has become confused now that I have learned most equipment that offers XLRs is not really balanced. I do like the solid feel, and the locking, XLR provides.
I usually prefer balanced to single-ended, but system matching is the most
important. Bluefox...Do you still have the Bryston BDA-1 Dac?Linn AV5140 fronts
Linn AV5120 Center
Linn AV5140 Rears
M&K MX-70 Sub for Music
Odyssey Mono-Blocs
SVS Ultra-13 Gloss Black:D -
IDo you still have the Bryston BDA-1 Dac?
Sure do. Listening to it right now. It also is connected via XLR to the pre-amp. Aside from the SPDIF digital cable from the Wadia iTransport to the DAC, the whole system is connected via XLR, and it is dead quiet. I can put my ear to the speaker and hear nothing.Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
Sure do. Listening to it right now. It also is connected via XLR to the pre-amp. Aside from the SPDIF digital cable from the Wadia iTransport to the pre-amp, the whole system is connected via XLR, and it is dead quiet. I can put my ear to the speaker and hear nothing.
Thats one of the great things about going balanced-its dead quiet.:)
I use a balanced AES/EBU digital cable from my Theta Transport to a Sonic Frontiers Ultra Jitterbug then to my Theta Dac.
That Sony 5400ES sacd player is Sweet!Linn AV5140 fronts
Linn AV5120 Center
Linn AV5140 Rears
M&K MX-70 Sub for Music
Odyssey Mono-Blocs
SVS Ultra-13 Gloss Black:D -
Congrats on the new player. I really is amazing how good the sound is. Enjoy.Michael
In the beginning, all knowledge was new!
NORTH of 60° -
I hope to have a totally balanced system at some point. I'm 2/3 there already as my source and amp are balanced and just my preamp is not. I'd have to upgrade to Modwright LS 36.5 preamp, but that's more than I want to spend. I'm taking a break from any major upgrades for now. Time to kick back an enjoy what I have.
One more note- I just got a PS Audio Quintet power conditioner this week and this little unit has had a very positive impact on my whole rig. My old power conditioner didn't upgrade the sonics. I'm very impressed with the Quintet because I didn't think I would hear such a dramatic difference.
Last night I did some head to head comparisons with my Sony to my Bada HD-22. I started out using the same IC's for both and the Bada was soo much more live sounding than the Sony. I started to have Huge doubts about selling my Bada and thought maybe I should sell the Sony instead. I switched to different IC's for the Sony and then everything changed. Now the Sony had the edge, but not by much. -
I hope to have a totally balanced system at some point. I'm 2/3 there already as my source and amp are balanced and just my preamp is not. I'd have to upgrade to Modwright LS 36.5 preamp, but that's more than I want to spend. I'm taking a break from any major upgrades for now. Time to kick back an enjoy what I have.
One more note- I just got a PS Audio Quintet power conditioner this week and this little unit has had a very positive impact on my whole rig. My old power conditioner didn't upgrade the sonics. I'm very impressed with the Quintet because I didn't think I would hear such a dramatic difference.
Last night I did some head to head comparisons with my Sony to my Bada HD-22. I started out using the same IC's for both and the Bada was soo much more live sounding than the Sony. I started to have Huge doubts about selling my Bada and thought maybe I should sell the Sony instead. I switched to different IC's for the Sony and then everything changed. Now the Sony had the edge, but not by much.
Congrats-Enjoy the Music:)Linn AV5140 fronts
Linn AV5120 Center
Linn AV5140 Rears
M&K MX-70 Sub for Music
Odyssey Mono-Blocs
SVS Ultra-13 Gloss Black:D
