Quad CDP2 and 909 combo question

[admin_exported]

hi - I'm considering this but have heard some people say that the best performance is achieved using the direct fixed output and that using the volume controlled outputs from the CD reduces performance significantly. I'd welcome comments about this.

Also, and particularly if there is a performance issue, I'm not clear if this option (i.e. using the fixed outputs) is possible with the 909 which is only a power amp. Be great if someone could clarify this.

Thanks

 

[Frank Harvey]

If you use the fixed outputs of any CD player, including the CDP2, you'd need to use a pre-amp between the CD and the power amplifier. Many people have over the years used a CD player with a variable output straight into a power amplifier, and achieved good results. The CDP2 (over the CDP) has an integral digital pre-amplifier, allowing you to plug other sources into it digitally, and has a variable analogue output, as all pre-amplifiers do. This is nothing to worry about, as it has been designed to work like a pre-amp. If variable outputs didn't sound good, then pre/power amp combinations would be rubbish

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks David - you were very helpful with your other suggestions too.

So now I've spoken to a local retailer who is going to let me audition 1) this combo, 2) a Roksan Kandy set up and 3) a Pioneer PD D9 and A9 amp in my own house and using the Wharfedale 505.2 I have already - can hardly wait!! Even more impressive is that he's quoted me prices for the components and this are really competitive.

I could just about squeeze a few more ££ off by buying direct on line, but this guy deserves his money - unfailingly courteous, patience of a saint as I ramble and swither.

I'll post again once I've got the kit in and had a listen.

 

[Anonymous]

Sounds great. What speakers are you trying them all with? My money is on the Quad

EDIT Ah, Wharfedale 505.2, missed that as I've never heard of them!

 

[Anonymous]

The wharfedales are 'survivors' from my existing system. Although about 25 years old they were a bit of a classic in their day. I'll let the wife, the bank manager (and the bank balance) recover and see how the 505.2 sound with the new kit - maybe replace them in 6-9 months.

I'm interested in any views about the Pioneer - anyone?

 

[Anonymous]

igglebert:My money is on the Quad

The Quad has a head start - I've always wanted a Quad since my dad had two separate Quad pre and power amps (one of each for each channel). Think they were about 15 watts a channel and were big valve-y affairs. He had a Lenco turntable and HMV speakers - this was in the 60s!

 

[Anonymous]

IW:
igglebert:My money is on the Quad

The Quad has a head start - I've always wanted a Quad since my dad had two separate Quad pre and power amps (one of each for each channel). Think they were about 15 watts a channel and were big valve-y affairs. He had a Lenco turntable and HMV speakers - this was in the 60s!

Fantastic! I get far too sentimental about these things but owning a Quad and Spendor system makes me glow

My father is to blame, that's what I keep telling myself. Good luck with it.

 

[Frank Harvey]

IW: Thanks David - you were very helpful with your other suggestions too.

No problem - let us know how you get on my money's on the Quad too.....