We have developed an upgrade package which we call ‘The Paradox’ specific to the Sony SCD-1 , SCD-777es , SCD555es , XB-940qs and DVP-S9000es family of players. These players (all stereo only output) share similar audio chips and allow extraction of the audio signal at the earliest stage possible. SACD is extracted as the DSD bitstream without any conversion to PCM and redbook CD is extracted using Sony’s VC24 chip allowing user selectable digital filtering. Later Sony models integrated the digital to analogue process and do not upgrade to the same performance. We have developed two analogue output stage which bypasses the Sony voltage to current converter, current to voltage converter (yes that’s right they convert from and back to an analogue voltage signal !!!), Ultrasonic filter and output stage.

There are two options for the output stage upgrade, Active or Passive. Both stages use a minimum of components in the signal path for minimum degradation of sound quality. The Active version has lowest output impedance but is more expensive. The Active version is powered by Hypex voltage regulators, with the Balanced version there are separate Left & Right channel voltage regulators for best performance even when using the unbalanced output of this version.

In addition The Paradox upgrade includes the Chevron ChronoClock, and many power supply improvements including a Tentlabs Shunt regulator.

Cost of The Paradox upgrade installed in your player is:-

Passive:- £470 unbalanced output or £540 balanced output.

Active:- £590 unbalanced output or £820 balanced output.

We have experience servicing these players and can get essential spares so can support your upgraded player for many years happy listening.