Bolero,
Unfortunately I have the same issue: can't audition. By all accounts it sounds special, so I went ahead and ordered one. If it's not special enough I will likely be able to sell it at a small discount.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
- The Metrum does not have USB input. You mention you use the USB port in your laptop. You will need a USB-to-S/PDIF converter between laptop and Metrum. Look into a couple of threads discussing this in this forum.
- The Metrum is specified up to 24 bit / 176 kHz, and only 1 in 100 are said to work up to 192. This is only an issue if you have many 24/192 albums, which I don't.
My estimation is a laptop + good USB-to-S/PDIF converter + Metrum will outperform many CD players at the same price point. It should be even better with hi-resolution files (24 bit), which CD can't support. I have not tried this, though, hence it's an estimation.
Nice amp and speakers, BTW.
I hope this helps.
Shabat Shalom!