Aloha, SunnyJim.
I've owned both the Arcam CD-33 and Ayre CX-7e MP. Both are quality, highly musical sources, but the Ayre is in a different league. If you have an extensive SACD collection, I would suggest the Arcam CD-37 that now supports SACD, or the Sony. Otherwise, esp. if you can exploit balanced output, buy a used Ayre at around $2k And don't look back. Used prices have likely stabilized, so your investment should hold its value for a while. Also, you'll have access to world-class product support should you ever need it.
Good luck in your search.
I've owned both the Arcam CD-33 and Ayre CX-7e MP. Both are quality, highly musical sources, but the Ayre is in a different league. If you have an extensive SACD collection, I would suggest the Arcam CD-37 that now supports SACD, or the Sony. Otherwise, esp. if you can exploit balanced output, buy a used Ayre at around $2k And don't look back. Used prices have likely stabilized, so your investment should hold its value for a while. Also, you'll have access to world-class product support should you ever need it.
Good luck in your search.