SACD player buying criteria

August 18, 2006

I would like to buy an SACD player. I understand that all SACD players, including high-end models currently available, convert DSD signals to 88kHz PCM data and thus they do not take full advantage of DSD encoding. Why is it so and are there SACD players available which do not do this down conversion? How to identify such SACD players? I am planning to buy the Marantz SA 7001 SACD player. Does this brand-new model also convert DSD? On the other hand, Sony SACD players specify that they use dual pickup laser. Does it mean two lasers: one for CD layer and other for SACD? Does this dual laser mean no down conversion of DSD and hence the right criteria to choose the correct SACD player?

Suburban

It is untrue that all SACD players convert DSD to PCM. Some do, and some don't. It is easy to get caught up in one aspect of design and hinge your buying decisions on that single element. Don’t fall for it. Some of the brightest minds in the business claim that there is a technical advantage to converting DSD to PCM; other equally bright minds see it the other way. I’ve heard players in both camps sound downright fantastic. It’s better to listen to the players in question than to simply compare some single design element and use that as the determining factor in whether you buy one model or another.

Video products?

August 16, 2006

Do you guys ever review video products such as LCD TVs? I am in the market for a small screen, around 25”, and need some advice on what to buy.

Linda

We don’t review video products on GoodSound! As the name states, we’re all about good sound. However, I can tell you that the prices of LCD technology have come down so drastically in the last year or so that there are some pretty incredible values in the under-32” size range. Even the general retailers such as Wal-Mart are carrying some decent sets. Shop around and make sure you’re getting the latest high-definition specs, but I don’t think you’ll have any problem getting a good set for a reasonable price.

Speakers for iPod

August 11, 2006

I am in the process of deciding between purchasing an iPod speaker system, the Klipsch iFi, or purchasing an iPod dock and using the line out (mini-jack to RCA) to connect to a home stereo system. I have an H.H. Scott 299 Stereomaster receiver and am also currently looking for speakers. What is your opinion? If you prefer the home stereo approach, could you recommend a pair of speakers? I am looking for something for under $200 per pair.

Liam

The home stereo approach would yield the best sound in my opinion. And since you already own the receiver, that's a cost-effective approach. As for which speakers to buy, there are so many options. You could buy a set of Insignias from Best Buy for under $50 -- these sound great for the price and are readily available in most towns. Up from there in price, you could get a pair of SVS SB-01s for about $200. Finally, how about a set of Axiom M2 v2s from their factory outlet for about $260? These Axioms are tried-and-tested speakers that I know you'll like. All three of these models are bookshelf designs and will work in fairly tight locations -- just be sure to check their dimensions to make sure.