Recently I swapped out my Arcam CD73 for a Mac Mini after conducting some A/B comparisons between the two. Naturally, the Mac Mini caused my jaw to drop when I realised there was absolutely no audible difference in sound. So next, A/B comparison time with a slightly more expensive spinner - this time a Roksan Kandy cd player. Again, no audible difference. So I've thrown it all out, cleared up a lot of space, and now I have 50,000 songs on a box the size of 5 Cds.
I've been into audio for around 5 years now and this is the best it's been.
Listed as my first and most important component. This brings everything together. And let's be honest, it's all about the music, and I have 50,000 tracks worth. Mac mini Intel Core Duo attached to a 320gb external running Front Row. Absolutely priceless! On board DAC sounds incredible. A/B comparison to previous Arcam CD73 shows Mac Mini come up on top!
Advantage S101
The most dramatic change to my system. Perfect. 175w per channel.
Monitor Audio Gold Ref 20
2 x 6.5" drivers. Metal dome tweeter. Pretty good for the money. Sometimes can sound a little forward, although I think this is down to my listening room (aka living room)
Nordost Blue Heaven
Picked up for $60, this has to be one of the best bargains I have come across during my time in hifi. Incredibly open and detailed, although only 60cm in length.
Chord Odyssey
4 - 2 Bi-wire. Very cheap considering the change it made to my system. Worth every penny. 2 x 2.5
Isotek Isol-8
Currently connected to the Arcam. Really does put this budget player on another level.
Merlin Tarantula
Not bad considering the price, although I plan to replace this very soon. Currently connected to my integrated.
