It's the Sony XA5400ES the best CDP under 4k

hi tmsorosk:

as a cd player or sacd player, what do you prefer and why ? and, what do you think are the "weaknesses" of the sony.

i have heard that it may be a bit thin sounding.

Hello Mrtennis
First let me say that the 5400 is an excellent machine . The posters question was, is there a better player under $4000 . I think there is , ( in my opinion). I won't comment on which ones I like , as I know it will bring on an onslaught of angry Audiogoner's . As far as your second question , yes I did find it a little bit thin . In fact most Sony CD players Iv'e owned had that feel , Iv'e heard players with more bass slam too . But overall its a fine player . I did not mean to offend anyone . Its only my two cents worth , and weather my opinion is worth that much is debatable . Happy listening .

Does your XA5400ES sound thin compared to what other CD player? I can't imagine anyone describing XA5400ES to sound thin, although I can understand the incorrect generalization that Sony CD players could all sound thin.

No thinness in my Sony 5400 either, with a robust yet integrated and articulate bass, especially with a good powercord. I use Shunyata Python CX and will try soon Anaconda CX and Furutech Powerflux. Using these cords there is no turning back to the stock cord. IMO of course.

Marantz players (SA11) have better timbre and more body at least on SACD.