cd5 and ikemi: first impression
Posted by: Theo on 08 December 2001
Yesterday I had a demo of the CD5 and the Ikemi.
Impressions:
Ikemi: clearer highs, more detailed, wider and deeper soundstage, voices and violins better.
BUT: I liked the CD 5 more. It played more music. I didn't listen anymore to highs, a voice left or a solo clarinet in an orchester. It was like hearing the same musicpiece by a more compelling performer. For instance I listened to the rachmaninof prelude op 23 no 5. On the CD5 the perfomance was of Horowitz level: dynamic, urgent and bursting of energy. The Ikemi sounded more smooth.
Impressions:
Ikemi: clearer highs, more detailed, wider and deeper soundstage, voices and violins better.
BUT: I liked the CD 5 more. It played more music. I didn't listen anymore to highs, a voice left or a solo clarinet in an orchester. It was like hearing the same musicpiece by a more compelling performer. For instance I listened to the rachmaninof prelude op 23 no 5. On the CD5 the perfomance was of Horowitz level: dynamic, urgent and bursting of energy. The Ikemi sounded more smooth.
I wonder what will happen to the CD5 with a flat or hicap?
Are there other CD players with the same compelling sound? T+A, Electrocompaniet EMC1, Meridian?
Theo
The CD5/Hi-cap combination is very good for slightly less money than an Ikemi. You'll find that it will be giving you the best of both worlds.
However, if you can find the 400 GBP price premium over the Ikemi, the CDX is well worth it, IMHO.
It's always a nice day for it 
Have a good one! 
Steve.
It's good to get back to normal.