Sony CDP

[stiffy]

In my search for a used CDP to match up with my Arcam Alpha 5 amp & Mission 70 speakers, the guy I bought my amp from has lent me a Sony CDP-M18 model to try. It's a midi sized thing. It's in really good nick and he only wants £30 for it but I've just tried it out and whilst it undoubtedly offers a better bass response than the DVD player I was using, I'm not sure it offers any real difference in sound quality. Maybe I'm expecting too much or haven't listened to it for long enough.

I told him I was looking at a Marantz PM52 MKII or Philips CD723 which is only going to work out around £20 more than this Sony to which he replied that he thought the Sony would be better.(but then he would say that) What do you guys think? Unfortunately I don't know anyone with a Marantz.

Thanks a million for all your responses to date.

 

[Andrew Everard]

Gets a

from me, I'm afraid. Very so-so player.

Greenhome Electronics have got that Marantz 52Mk2 for £35, and a Sony CDP-XE510 for £30, either of which would be a much better bet.

 

[matthewpiano]

Give the Sony a miss and put the money towards something better.

 

[the record spot]

Yup, would go along with either of Andrew's suggestions. The CD52 was a fine player in its day (early 90s) and mine was played to death for a few years. Only stopped using it thanks to divorce!

 

[Andrew Everard]

Especially as the one GHE is selling hasn't succumbed to the screamy loader gears...

 

[stiffy]

Thanks again guys. I probably knew what your answer was going to be anyway but just wanted to hear it from someone in the know.

Looks like it's a Marantz for me then. Will let you know how I get on in due course.

John

 

[stiffy]

Andrew,

Given that all things are equal re condition etc with these two CDP's at GHE would you recommend one over the other ?

Thanks

John

 

[Andrew Everard]

Given the choice, I'd go for the Marantz.

 

[matthewpiano]

Very good player, the CD52MkII. A lot of performance for that sort of money.

Can fully recommend Green Home as well. I've dealt with them a few times and their service and packaging is excellent.