Dedicated CD Player or Universal Player?

[admin_exported]

I'm really hoping someone can help me with this dilemma, wasn't sure if this should go under the "Home Cinema" or "Hi-Fi" section?

I recently upgraded my audio equipment. I am more concerned about music reproduction than by Home Cinema/Surround Sound but did want Surround Sound ability for gaming. Limited by space and budget, I had to choose between sacrificing the surround sound, or getting a good receiver and speakers that would do a reasonable job of stereo. To that end I chose the Denon AVR-1910 and Q Acoustics 2000 Cinema Package.

I've been adding new components as I go, being mindful that anything I add should withstand any future upgrade of amp and/or speakers (which would probably be stereo as apposed to AV receiver). I now wish to buy a better CD Player to replace the existing Technics SL-PG440A. I've currently been considering the Rega Apollo (though not been able to listen yet - but based on a fondness for my old Rega Planet and good reviews), or the Cambridge Audio Azur 650BD (the thinking being that I could also use this to replace my PS3 for Blu-ray playback, as well as the obvious advantages of multi format playback).

[class="Apple-style-span"]Budget is up to £500, I'm open to suggestions of alternate options and I am looking for audio benefits over and above any visual benefit. Any thoughts/suggestions/insight would be greatly appreciated, thanks.[/class]

 

[AlmaataKZ]

I think gor for a universal or bluray player or consider computer + dac. Any of these will have more functionality and should have same or better sound.

 

[d_a_n1979]

I agree

A Cambridge Audio Azur 650BD and a decent DAC and you've got the best of both worlds IMO

The Rega Apollo is a stunning CDP and well worth its price BUT it doesnt play Blu-Rays or DVDs!

 

[the record spot]

Another vote for the 650BD here. For the money, the functionality and quality which appears to be on offer is impressive. One to hear (and see) I think!

 

[def lugs]

I have the 650bd and cambridge audio DAC combo and very happy with the combination. If I was shopping at present I would hang on and audition the denon DBP-2011UDCI due out soon. Which for about the same cash as cambridge pairing could be a good solution.

 

[the record spot]

Which reminds me, Marantz have some new universal players of their own coming out in the very near future as well. Decisions, decisions...!

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the input guys. The recommendation seems to be unanimous.

Think I'll wait for the new bunch of universal players and then go for some serious listening!