Hi-Rez Highway: REVIEW: Chord Blu CD Player/Recorder by Dean M

Model:	Blu
Category:	CD Player/Recorder
Suggested Retail Price:	4100 UK pounds
Description:	CD Transport
Manufacturer URL:	Chord
Manufacturer URL:	Chord

Review by Dean M ( A ) on August 30, 2004 at 06:08:02
IP Address: 62.64.225.72

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I thought of writing reams about the Chord Blu but soon realised that I only had positive things to say and that all my scribblings could be brought down to the following.
If you have a second generation DAC64 and Â£4000 going spare then go a listen to the Blu as soon as possible. But a WARNING! If you havenâ€™t got the money donâ€™t audition this product cos youâ€™ll buy one.
Iâ€™ve heard nothing to compare to the Blu + DAC64 combination and I can only imagine that any significant upgrade would be a Linn of Krell player at ball breaking prices.
The Blu is good with a first generation DAC64 but you really need to run at 4 times oversampling to get the real benefit and that needs the second generation DAC. There are several possible switch combinations for the DAC 64 and the Blu and it is worth experimenting when auditioning because the sound quality does change. You also need an amplifier and speakers that go well beyond 20 KHz and very good quality connectors (I use Chord Signature and Atlas Compass). I run a Chord SPM2600 and Tannoy TD8s and for the first time in twenty years I am not aware of any major system limitations, in fact Iâ€™m not aware of the system, just the music. I have already greatly increased my listening level because I can with no fatigue.
I suppose the ultimate accolade for the Blu is that for over twenty years I have had a Linn LP12 set up and 1000+ albums and for the first time I have started to buy CD replacements for my vinyl, enough said.

Product Weakness: Esthetics may not be to everyones taste.
Product Strengths: outstanding sonic performance

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Chord SPM 2600
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	LinnLP12
Speakers:	Tannoy TD8
Cables/Interconnects:	Chord company and atlas
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Popular, jazz and classical
Room Size (LxWxH):	25 x 10 x 8
Time Period/Length of Audition:	owned for 8 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Russ andrews Powerclamp
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Esthetics may not be to everyones taste.
Product Strengths:	outstanding sonic performance