Ayon CD2 is AMAZING

Budt, I hear what you're saying, and as I mentioned; i've been guilty myself of beating the barrel a bit too loudly that brand (Ayon). I recently bought the latest model CD-5s, but am holding off posting a review until it's played in & i've got something considered to say. I read the comments you were referring to, and they were bizarre, but don't let one bad egg turn you off Ayon gear.

Melbguy1
Please don't get me wrong. I don't care if someone gives very high for a product ,even continually, if they are truly a real audiophile which has listened to or purchased the product.Everyone I am sure( including me) enjoys reading posts from real audiophiles who have purchased equipment with their own hard earned cash.
What we don't need are people posting comments (pretending to be real consumers of highend audio gear who have a vested interest).In other words,shills.

Agreed Budt! I'm looking forward to borrowing a very good ear I know to help review my CD-5s in the near future & will post a review on AG. I'm a passionate audiophile & don't have time for shills either. Going back to the OP's question, I don't think it's appropriate to describe the CD-2 as a reference player, however I know from talking to Gerhard Hirt the latest model CD-2s included a lot of design improvements, and was brought closer to the CD-5/5s. The main thing is Wig is happy with his purchase...great stuff!

My Ayon CD2 is being used as a transport now, using the Berkeley Alpha Dac and love it.

Taking an Ayon CDP and using an alternate DAC, well that is just nuts. Akin to buying a pair Dali speakers and then start changing out tweeters to make it better. Many folks have over many years trained their ears to simply, bad soundstage so they can not appreciate the unique sound of the Ayon CDP's. It is only after time that they realize what they have been missing.