In Reply to: audio analogue maestro(mki) woes. HELP! posted by KShaft on May 26, 2003 at 03:11:37:
Hi
I have heard the Maestro and agree with your observations.
If I understand correctly your priorities are bass punch, weight and dynamics. In that case buy a used Rega Planet or CAL Icon for transport duties and a used Wadia X-32 DAC. AFAIK it is difficult to beat the Wadia bass and rhythm drive.
I think you can buy both (transport + X32) for about $800.
The sound quality is surprisingly up-to-date, specially in the midrange.
A friend of mine has this combination. In my opinion, it beat hands down a Cary 306-200 CDP ( I also place high priority on oomph and weight). The Cary is a fine player, a good buy for someone who loves lots of detail.
If your budget is really tight, try a CAL ICON MK II HDCD with Power Boss. It also has plenty of punch but is a little rough on the edges.
Most modern CDPs fail the rythm test because they either use single-bit DACs or place too much emphasis on oversampling to bring up treble detail.
A good multibit CDP will beat most modern stuff in the bass and drive areas, IMO.
Good luck
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Follow Ups
- Re: audio analogue maestro(mki) woes. HELP! - Carlos 05/27/0320:16:15 05/27/03 (1)
- Thanks Carlos! - KShaft 21:02:45 05/27/03 (0)