ASTINtrew? Ever heard of this company?
I'm currently using an Adcom GCD-600, but it's starting to show it's age (it's been repaired a few times already). So I'm again in the market for a CD player that is very analytical, airy, and detailed that would be a nice contrast to most of my "warm" gear. I ran across this article in HiFi+ that was quite positive of the ASTINtrew At-3000 CD player, with a tube output stage. Moreover the price is certainly within my range (about $1K). Provided that I can find a dealer in the states, I'm tempted to just buy it.
But I've never heard of this company and wonder if this is a bit risky. Any thoughts about this player? Should I consider something else closer to home? If so, any suggestions that will still provide the qualities I'm looking for?
Bad idea to use a transformer with 220v components?
Well it turns out there is no US distributor, at least not until 2008. However, the company is willing to sell me a 220v (EU) unit at a discount. I would then need to purchase an external transformer.
Now with all the discussion about power conditioning and power chords, am I looking at a serious degradation in sound if I use an external transformer? Should I then still plug the transformer into my power center, or is that asking for trouble?