[Jeff G]

Ha d a b'day today and am able to move forward with a new amp. Was considering the CDA254 or the SDS 254. I will be using single-ended inputs. Is the extra $100 warranted if not using balanced inputs? $210 is pretty cook for a nice sounding amp. Anyone compared the two amps???

I am also building some speakers (Dennis Murphy ER18) so I don't need to spend money where it is not warranted. I am using a SB3, a Paradesia plus DAC, an Onkyo 805 receiver with some DIY speakers and an IB sub. I will likely try to eliminate the receiver from the chain once the amp and speakers are built. I am considering a Nelson Pass or Dodd buffer down the road as well.

I looked through the marathon post but did not make through the whole thing!!!
Thanks for any thoughts!!

[Nick77]

I started with the CDA series and then upgraded to the SDS254 and feel its well worth the extra $100. The SDS just has better control, making it more resolute, even with single ended. Happy B day.

[jtsnead]

Happy Dday. it was mine also the 12th that is,

Get the SDS-254 the general consensus is that its better
all around. I am running mine single ended and it sounds
great!

[wushuliu]

Ha d a b'day today and am able to move forward with a new amp. Was considering the CDA254 or the SDS 254. I will be using single-ended inputs. Is the extra $100 warranted if not using balanced inputs? $210 is pretty cook for a nice sounding amp. Anyone compared the two amps???

I am also building some speakers (Dennis Murphy ER18) so I don't need to spend money where it is not warranted. I am using a SB3, a Paradesia plus DAC, an Onkyo 805 receiver with some DIY speakers and an IB sub. I will likely try to eliminate the receiver from the chain once the amp and speakers are built. I am considering a Nelson Pass or Dodd buffer down the road as well.

I looked through the marathon post but did not make through the whole thing!!!
Thanks for any thoughts!!

The SDS ihas buffer and higher input impedance so it is the better choice overall. The CDA requires more careful matching with a pre (though many enjoy it regardless).

[Jeff G]

Sounds like the SDS is the way to go. Thanks for the assistance. I Will look on the big O' thread to get reccs for internal wiring and RCAs. If anyone has a favorite place to purchase wiring and gauge reccs for power and RCA hookups that would be great. I'll order the SDS tonight

[wushuliu]

Sounds like the SDS is the way to go. Thanks for the assistance. I Will look on the big O' thread to get reccs for internal wiring and RCAs. If anyone has a favorite place to purchase wiring and gauge reccs for power and RCA hookups that would be great. I'll order the SDS tonight

Soniccraft Neotech 24awg for line and 16awg for power, and Cardas or Vampire for  rca's at bargain prices.

http://soniccraft.com/products/wire/chassis/neotech.htm

http://soniccraft.com/products/connections/rca/chassis/vampire_cm1fcb.htm

They have cheaper options as well but I'm a believer in do it right the first time. They also ship USPS on request which cuts shipping cost down a little.

or cat5/6 twisted pairs from Home depot and the gauge of your choice for power in the wire section which they will custom cut for you if you want the wire is wire route.