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View Full Version : Rotel RCD-965BX Limited Edition Discrete CD Player



Ripley's Cat
27-10-2017, 15:32
Hi -
One of those bits of kit that I never thought I'd sell.
And yes - it is the Limited Edition, Discrete model - with both stickers to prove it! (I've included a couple of topless shots for those who require such things . . . gives a pretty clear shot of the discrete output stage, designed by Rotel UK. )

However, it's been sat in my second system for the last six years and - in these days of Spotify streaming - I think I might have used it only a handful of times. Been spinning Johnny Cash this afternoon ('American V', if anyone's interested) and it sounds as natural a player as I've ever heard. Leaps and bounds ahead of Spotify's 320kb stream . . . . I need to be careful, or I'll end up convincing myself that I really should be hanging onto it. Possibly.

However, also compared to other CD players, it holds its own. I'm going ahead with subjectivism here, but it more than holds its own against my Arcam CD93 in my main system. I would be very hard pressed to choose one over the other; Arcam amps and Arcam tuner are the deciding factor to stick with a one-manufacturer system.

It would be well worth reading up on the differences between this model and the standard; the discrete component output stage is what provides the second part of its extended name. Also included, is the user manual & certification from Rotel confirming authenticity of the model's hot-rod status; I've also found the original receipt for £379.95 (in 1994).

A few minor scratches on the top; have a careful scrutiny of the photos for reference (if you need further photos, just ask.) Otherwise, in excellent and full working condition.

Plastic transport screws for the mechanism are ready and waiting. No original box, but will be packed securely in an Arcam amp box with plenty of bubble wrap. However, given the age of the player, I would much prefer it to be collected (LN4, Lincs).

So, how much? Dunno, really - are CD players still coveted / used a much as they once were?
How about £150 collected?
£17.50 p&p for Parcelforce 48 (includes tracking code and full compensation).

Cup of tea thrown in for good measure - but only if you're collecting from the depths of Lincolnshire.
(Also on the nasty bidding site.)

Remote is also present and correct and working.

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Ripley's Cat
28-10-2017, 10:16
SOLD

Brigadoon
28-10-2017, 13:31
SOLD

Dagnabbit - missed this one. I had the bog standard 965 and with a bit of fettling it was a cracking player - always wanted to try a Discrete - whoever's bought it has got a really nice piece of kit there!

Ripley's Cat
28-10-2017, 18:28
You know, Barry - just reading your comment has made me cry. I really felt that I needed to hang onto this one . . . it was so damn good, but just wasn't being used. I'm sure the new owner will be delighted (although sold on the bidding site). Just seeng the Rotel UK discrete board when I popped the hood to take the snaps made me palpitate with the fear of indecision.