Hi-Rez Highway: REVIEW: Sony SCD1 CD Player/Recorder by PhillyB

Model:	SCD1
Category:	CD Player/Recorder
Suggested Retail Price:	$5000
Description:	SACD {layer
Manufacturer URL:	Sony
Model Picture:	View

Review by PhillyB ( A ) on December 28, 2004 at 13:13:30
IP Address: 65.54.98.140

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for the SCD1

I have owned this unit for 3 years, after trying several ohter high-end units, Linn, Krell and Mark Levinson, I have remained in love with this 60 lb beast.
It plays SACD as good as any of the above and normal red-book cd as well also, I know the hip term "up-sampling" is hot, but it is nothing more then over-sampling, this SCD1 does this as well.
Vocals are to die for, jazz a perfect match of natural detail and warmth, classical music is warm rich and full body when recorded well. What is surprising to me is how well 24 bit recordings sound with this unit.
Having said the above please keep this in mind, I switched the ac polarity at the male end of my AC plug, this takes this unit to another level, no mods are needed, in fact they void the warranty and would hurt Sony Service ability to service the unit.
One fault if it is one, it loads slow, but I really don't care, it sounds just to good to quibble. It is also a fully balanced unit from input to output, something which the Sony newer ES cd players do not offer, a shame, I am sure it as hurt there sales.
I might add this is the best built CD player I have ever seen, it is a tank that will last for years to come.
Well after 3 years I felt I would write a mini review, if you can find one for sale, buy it asap. Sony built a classic, when compared to the newer units that are marketed today as the best thing ever designed, sorry I do not hear it and that a good thing to know.
For the here and now my digital search is over.

Product Weakness: None
Product Strengths: Musical, Transparent, Dynamic and Fully Body
Make you check the AC polarity, it is a night and day difference.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Mcintosh MC402
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Mcintosh C200
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Sony SCD1
Speakers:	Dynaudio Confidence 5
Cables/Interconnects:	Harmontic Technology Magic
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	All Types
Room Size (LxWxH):	20 x 14 x 10
Room Comments/Treatments:	ARS Side Wall Panels
Time Period/Length of Audition:	3 years
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	PS Audio Ultimate Outlets
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None
Product Strengths:	Musical, Transparent, Dynamic and Fully Body Make you check the AC polarity, it is a night and day difference.