To Doug Schneider,
I read your article on the Cambridge Audio 851C and am very interested in how you think it compares as to the Oppo 105. I recently purchased a Cambridge Audio 851A and am now looking to add a CD player. Previously I used DVD players and AVRs. I am really only looking for a dedicated CDP; however, the benefit of being able to play SACDs and also DVDs is a benefit. Everything will then fit into my cabinet.
I am no audiophile so am a little confused about a dedicated CDP versus a universal player such as the Oppo, as I have read many reports suggesting it is equivalent to a $4000 CD player. But many also suggest that a universal player is not as good as a dedicated CD player, although the Oppo seems to be the standout here.
If the Oppo offers the sound and CD quality that the Cambridge Audio does, I will probably go down that path, as it is simply more convenient to have one box to do both; however, if the Cambridge Audio 851C surpasses the Oppo in CD playback, I would probably go down that path.
I am in Australia, so it is very difficult to audition both at the same store. Can you offer any advice here?
Thanks,
Tom
Audiophiles tend to make sweeping judgments, such as the one you mentioned about universal players tending not to be as good as dedicated CD players, but the truth of the matter is that it depends on the implementation. So don’t let those comments sway you. Instead, go with what works well for your situation.
I'd obviously encourage auditioning both, but I realize that's not practical (it's becoming increasingly difficult for consumers anywhere to audition and compare products), so I'll give you my two cents on what I think you should do. I really liked the Cambridge Audio 851C, and I haven’t heard the Oppo BDP-105, but given what you’ve said about the desire to play not only CDs, but SACDs and DVDs as well, I’d lean toward the Oppo because it will allow you to do this. Plus, I hear great things about this unit and it's priced quite a bit lower than the 851C. What’s more, its DAC section now also supports DSD, which a lot of audiophiles like. . . . Doug Schneider
