Cyrus CD8 vs Arcam FMJ CD23

[keithlewin]

Can somebody help me choose between the two? Unfortunately I can't audition them side by side and need to move on one of the two quite quickly. The Cyrus is the CD8 (not CD8x) and the Arcam is the CD23 (not the CD23T). I've currently got the Arcam CD42T which is a bit lacklustre and since I've discovered DVD audio and SACD I've just fallen out of love with CDs. But I want to upgrade to get back into them.

The rest of my kit is the Yamaha Z9 and Mission 783s (both of which I'm happy with - for now)

Any advice out there?

[mr_seanstanley]

you're looking at different ends of the listening scale there. The cd8 has a very cyrus sound. bright and lean with more focus on the definition of notes rather than harmonics. the arcam is more restrained with silky highs and a slightly rounded bass but much more pleasant a listen over longer periods.

[tom_nieto]

The CD8 can be upgraded with both a PSX-R and also the the 'x' spec. It might be worth considering this when you have more cash, or if you're getting a good deal on the player. I've been using a Cyrus CD player with a cyrus amp and mission 783s and to my ears it sounds great. Not heard any Arcam gear so I couldn't comment on that.