XTZ CD100 or Rega Apollo?

[synsei]

I'm considering upgrading my ageing NAD CD524 CD player after Christmas and have shortlisted the players above.

I've read good things about both decks and I'm having trouble deciding which to choose. I'm certain from the reviews I've read that either player will be a significant improvement over my NAD, I'm just not sure which will suit my system best. I'd like to audition both players in my system, but as I live a good ways from a decent Hi-Fi dealer this probably won't be possible with the Rega, so I'm hoping a fellow member can help me out. Another option would be to buy a DAC and keep the NAD, but I'm wondering if that might be false economy considering the age of the player. Whichever option I choose, I'll be running the winner through an Audiolab 8000c/Hafler DH220 pre/power combo and into a pair of Rogers LS55's. Inter-connects are 1x Ixos 104, 2x Monster Interlink 250's and a 1.5M RCA Interconnect Audio Cable Pair OFC Core CRC07 from Gear City on eBay. Speaker cables are Talk Talk 3.1 bi-wires.

I know my system is a bit 'Old Skool', but I haven't the funds to totally revamp it in one go, plus I'm partial to the amp section as it gives me the sort of sound, power and dynamics both the LS55's and I crave, and as a fringe benefit the 8000c has a decent phonostage for my Thorens TD316. I have a maximum budget of £500 and as much as I'd like to, I can't stray above that figure. I wish I could otherwise I'd settle for the new Audiolab deck with its ability to feed external digital sources into its DAC, which would be very handy for my MD player and PC.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated... :cheers:

[DSJR]

All I can say is that the Rega will have splendid service backup over a good few years and it sounds superb, as all their players do.. I can't speak for the other I'm afraid.

The NAD you have isn't that old I think (ten years or less old?), so should have the benefit of a lowish jitter transport. Given a solid base to place (or blac-tac) it on to, you may be surprised how much better it could be with a modern DAC, from the likes of a Gator'd Caiman to Rega's new DAC at £500 or so.

Given the local Rega dealers to you, I'd probably suggest Deco in Aylesbury, as I know the chap of old and respected his integrity.

By the way, Rega use Klotz based wires for their interconnects and IMO their players should be auditioned with one, as the cable will have been used to "finish off" the circuit. I can also vouch for the 3.1 bi-wire, although if you can find some clean 4.1 or Excel-4, this will sound more refined - I can say this from MUCH experience in the matter ;)

[synsei]

Hi Dave, thanks for your reply...

My NAD sits on a 400mm x 300mm x 30mm polished granite slab and three isolating feet in a home built rack, so I think I have that side about covered... ;)

The DAC upgrade is kinda tempting but I would like to audition a few just to be sure before I commit... :respect:

[Marco]

Hiya,

Welcome to AoS :)

What's your real first name, mate? This info is now required by all our members, so please add it to your profile.

Cheers! :cool:

Marco.

[synsei]

Hi Marco,

Sorry mate, wasn't aware it was needed, I'll get right on it... :doh:

Best regards and a Merry Christmas to you & yours... ;)

Dave...

[Marco]

Hi Dave,

No worries, mate - that's great, and much appreciated!

It's only because we pride ourselves in the community spirit that exists on AoS. And one of the reasons it exists is because we refer to each other by our first names, as human beings, and not as 'faceless entities' behind a keyboard, as is the case on most other audio sites :)

Marco.

[DSJR]

AAAHHHHH, another one ;)

[Techno Commander]

I believe XTZ have a home audition programme. Maybe worthwhile getting a demo unit for a couple of weeks.

[synsei]

AAAHHHHH, another one ;)

Lol Dave, I was wondering. Are you in the programme? It's a secret so you mustn't tell anyone about it. The Secret Society of Dave's are planning to take over the world, do you want in?

:lolsign:

[synsei]

Back on topic... ;)

After some tips from members of other forums I belong to, it would seem my NAD CDP isn't too shabby after all and would benefit from being run through a DAC, so I've decided to audition a Cambridge Audio DacMagic and an Arcam rDac to see what's what...:interesting:

[hifi_dave]

Don't forget the Rega DAC.

Dave's are definitely taking over, we even have our own Television station to infiltrate your mind. :eyebrows:

[HighFidelityGuy]

And don't forget the Beresford Caiman.

Regards,

Dave. :eyebrows:

[synsei]

Cheers guys, I'll bear all your suggestions in mind once Christmas is over an done with. Can't wait, more prezzies 'pour moi'. I'll need to be ultra nice to Mrs 'S' though, I fear a night out and some nice jewellery might be on the cards...
:lolsign:

[synsei]

Caiman purchased. Awaiting the arrival of Three Wise Men for fettling advice... :popcorn: ;)

[DSJR]

I wonder if the Rega in stock form might be practically as good? That'd set the cat amongst the pidgeons - edit - crocs and gators.... :)

[hifi_dave]

Well, I've done the dem...

[Ali Tait]

And?

[Darren]

Spill the beans Dave.... It'll all come out eventually anyway.

[DSJR]

I believe the Rega was better.....