Thanks, all, for your responses. I have listened to several players since posting, most imprtantly the Ayre, which I found extremely detailed, a bit laid back, not lush, but definitely musically involving. I wasn't crazy about the system I auditioned it in, so take all of that with a grain (the dealer was driving 86 db 2-way Focus Audios in a large, damped room with the 60-watt Ayre integrated).
Rgd- I have heard FMJ 23 numerous times (in T and non-T form) and have come away respecting, but not loving, the player.
As it happens, that's been my response to a number of players, in other systems and in my own. I think I am more interested in _musical_ involvement than in absolute resolution. My current system is fast, light and lean -- and just needs some more ... balls ? warmth?
Also, my wife has this thing about going to Europe for a couple of months...
Yesterday I ran across an Audio Aero Prima (original) at a local dealer for c$1500. I bought it. It sounds great, although it's not fully warmed up (the dealer said to allow a couple days).
Doug Schneider, in his review of the new Prima 24/192, made mention of some tweaks to make the original Prima more dynamic. I wrote and asked him what they were, and he doesn't remember. Any ideas? Know any current or past Prima owners?
I'll post again with the results once the player is warmed up.
Thanks again for all your help.
Regards,
Chris Younkman
Toronto
