Marantz CD63 MkII KI or Cyrus 6 cdp?

[GMK]

I'm trying to piece together my first hifi separates system. The amp looks certain to be a Nad C370, with either Ruark Talisman II or Mission 753 speakers.

As for source, I was recommended either the CD63 MKII KI or a friend will soon be selling a Cyrus 6 cdp

The question is, which one? (and if my other choices are not suitably matched feel free to flame me, it's the best way to learn

)

 

[Anonymous]

if it were my money, i would definatly give the marantz a second hearing!

 

[the record spot]

Much as I said first time round, there are caveats to buying older kit that you probably need to recognise; the CD63 was great in its' day, but depending on the condition, you need to consider P&L costs for replacing lasers, transports, etc. A lot of people remember this one fondly and this was one of Mrantz's finest products IMO.

The Cyrus CD6 has the benefit of being upgradeable to current specs, which the Marantz isn't. Well, you can tweak it, and there are firms who will, but with some offering a level 1 upgrade for £350, you need to think about that one a bit (I wouldn't personally, but it's not my call!).

Both have a good detailed sound, from memory, I think the '63 might be the more punchy, with the Cyrus leaner and maybe more open? I don't know, both are well rated. My only reservation would be the age of the 63 and hence I'd go for the Cyrus. The upgrade path is an obvious winner IMO but check out what you think of the sound at your mate's first.

Incidentally, I sent you some links for Mission 752s & 753s in your other thread for speakers that you might want to check out.

 

[GMK]

Thanks. Just seen it. I've read that the 753's are not nearly as accomplished as the Ruark Taliman II's, just to confuse me even more...

As for the CD63, it has already been upgraded "upgraded and modified by David Prichard at NET Audio in 2004. Mods included new VDC PSU's, AD826 op amps and a "rock clock" for less jitter. The result was a player much faster, deeper with a soun stage much wider and defined than the original KI model. The performance was boosted to that of a player costing around 2k (Niam, Arcam, Audiolab etc)"

This doesn't mean anything to me as I'm too new for all the jargon yet, does that sway your view at all of the CD63?

 

[the record spot]

Nope, not without hearing it. No word of laser or transport on there, so it's the same caveat emptor as you got before! This is one of the like-mods I referred to before, so it's a case of suck it and see. The KI was a fine model, so these aren't minor claims that the seller is making. Are you able to hear any of this kit?

As for the speakers, that's probably a fair comment; Ruark make some superb speakers and the Talisman was very well rated.

 

[Tear Drop]

The Talisman II speakers are extremely good, some of the best all round music makers I've heard at any price. Paired with the Marantz I think would give you many years of serious music enjoyment.

 

[GMK]

Are transports and lasers expensive for the 63? How long do they last on average?

Thanks for the help

 

[Anonymous]

all i can say is my marantz cd52mk11SE is nearly 20 years old and its still going srtong-my father uses it now!

I feel the 63 would be no exetpion

 

[Anonymous]

Hi,

The Marantz uses a Philips transport mechanism which, from what I've seen on the web, is still available. Check with Marantz or Philips if you're worried.

 

[GMK]

Postage is a little high but got it for £170 in the end. Here goes nothing

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120363597835

 

[Anonymous]

Congratulations! Marantz made and make some fine CD players, and that's one of their best.

 

[the record spot]

Looks like it's in good nick and well looked after. Nice snag - enjoy!

 

[GMK]

Now I just have to pair it well to avoid it being overtly bright. Would the Nad C370 amp be possibly a little too enthusiastic coupled with this source?

 

[Anonymous]

What's your budget?

 

[GMK]

Initially I was hoping around the £500 mark but it seems that's unlikely to be the case now

I was planning to pair the 63 KI with the Nad C370 amp and Ruark Talisman II speakers, I was just unsure if the amp may be a little excitable for the KI. Mission 753's are another possible choice on the speaker front

So really I'm open to suggestions, I am on a budget, but if it's worth it, I'll do it piece by piece

 

[Anonymous]

The CD63 MKII is long past it's shelf life. I would go for the Cyrus 6. Just my opinion.