CDS2? XPS2? 250Mk2?

As a quick answer, I'd go for the CDS2 (source first & all that), but there's a few things I'd also consider under "other" ...

1. Have you already optimised the stands / supports / mains spur etc?
2. How much cash is available anyway (CDS3 a option, or are you a staunch Olive fan?)
3. How many CDs vs LPs do you have / play anyway (which is the best source to spend money on)
4. (Devil's advocate )Seems like a pretty good system anyway - why change anything, or put another way, why not spend the money on music?

I'm usually wary of buying 2nd hand CDPs, but that said, I'm guessing with the rave reviews the CDS3's been getting, here's likely to be a few more CDS2s on the used market than usual, so now could be the right time to buy!

Good luck anyway,

J

bob, I haven`t heard the cds3 but I live with a cds2 and have owned a cdx. If the cds3 is really that much better than a cds2 and you have a big cd collection, then I would get the xps2 which alot of people say is already a good upgrade from the plain xps. But I would only do this if you are set on a cds3. Otherwise with the used market being what it is, you can upgrade your cdx head unit to cds2 for a small amount of money. OTOH, a Naim 01 tuner is a nice addition. I have one, and I use it as much, if not more, than my cds2. Again, I have never heard a cds3. regards, david

Out of my depth here, but can't a 52 power a prefix? If so, having heard Tom A's active SBLs, another 250 and a snaxo (powered by the hicap you already have) might be worth a trial, given the awesome front end you have.

Agree that active 250s are one way to go. Tried that for a month then changed to NAP500 as it had much more detail although not as impressive on first listening. The new 250 goes the same way much more detail. A good choice. My vote!

As for the CDS2 I got a loan for a week with my 52/500/SBls and was not impressed! Six times the price of my CDI and not as good as a Sony SACD(with SACD) at one 30th the price!

I would go for a new Arkiva if your more a vinyl junkie like me!

Alex--

"Maybe you could consider getting some decent speakers after that."

SNIGGER!

Bob

Hello Bob,

I voted for the NAP 250/2. Assuming your Troika is in good shape for the forseeable future,I would leave that thing alone. You run the same table as me, and though I have heard the Helikon SL, and loved it, the Troika is still a beautiful thing. CDX/XPS is quite solid. I heard an X with an XPS2 and was amazed at the added clarity compared to the XPS. I agree that if you are planning on the CDS3 sometime and you listen to a lot of CD, then that could be the way to go.

But the SBLs will love you if you buy them a NAP 250/2. The preamps and power supplies from the new series are supposedly "evolutionary" but the amps are "revolutionary".

Plus, both your CDs and records will sound better.

Connon

Hi Bob

I voted "Other" because CDS3 would be my first choice to replace the cdx.

You can upgrade the xps later.

You know that you are not going to be satified with a CDS2 head unit - don't you?

Then may be you could get some Kans to improve the speakers Not

Chris

Bob,

1. CDS2 or new 250 - do the dem, it could be a toughie and depends on what you want or wha your system needs.

2. New cart, but I am not sure about the Helikon SL, until I hear Adrians Koetsu.

Intuitively I would upgrade in tth eorder you have suggested, but have you thought of Fraiming the lot - it made as much difference or a bit more as the XPS2 in my system.

regards

Bob,

If you mostly listen to CDs then I would go for the CDS2. If vinyl is king, then I would get a Helikon SL...it is way better than your Troika.

The 250/2 is a great upgrade too, but lets face it, source first still rules.

Chris Bell