Muse model 9 sig CD player how good?

Just my 2¢ - The Muse 9Sig was my single-component solution for 2ch redbook and dvd video front end. At the time of my purchase, the distance between mass market dvd/cd players and declared hi-end units were vast in quality and price. I think the 9Sig reputation of excellent sound and video continues because it's original targets for playback performance were very high. The cutting edge nature of the Muse designer and upgrade path for future formats made the Nine an appropriate choice for me.

I have heard the units you mentioned, although not in my system. The 9000 I haven't heard, but it is prized by many as well. I would consider the Muse character as being neutral and controlled. Not the most relaxed or fluid as I have heard, but very competent. Trust your own decisions about better or best. IMO, the Muse has a refined sound that elevates it above the crowd.

Good luck.

The Muse sig 9 set a standard for redbook players. The new Muse 10 is far superior. Muse is neutral, detailed, musical and very listenable. It has some of the best midbass response of any player and its soundstage is as accurate as it gets. The Muse 10 is better than the Theta Compli (sorry people) and gives Wadia a run for its money. Give any Muse component serious consideration.

I upgraded my 9 sig gen3 to a 10, the improvement in cd playback was audible and significant, but not jaw droppingly different - a bit more clarity in the midrange and a bit more smooth and extended on the top - not that it wasn't good before. I would hold off on the universal model 11 - uless you need sacd - Kevin Halverson will admit that the redbook playback on the 10 is better than on the 11. So, I think you will really enjoy the model 9 sig - its a great player!

My experience upgrading to the 10 is exactly the same as Scotty 910's, but I would add the Model 10 has DVD-A capability, which sounds outstanding.

Thank you all very much, I borrowed a model nine sig. gen 3 overnight (thanks Tim!) and I certainly prefer it to the Sony. It is the sort of component that makes you question your other components so good are its virtues. What I mean is that at first I was thinking the Muse was a little light in mid/upper character but now I wonder if it is my speaker wire or maybe the lower bass was a little soft but I know my amp needs new tubes. It holds its own with my other beloved components and I would not put one above the other between my Trente speakers or the Soro SE amplifier.

Talk about pulling out and listening to old discs! From what I rememeber, on a different system, the Muse reminds me of the Meridian 508/24 though a guess would be the Meridian is less open and more colored especially in the bass. I think the Muse is very neutral with excellent soundstaging and very detailed without hitting you over the head with information and no exaggeration of the high end in substitute for detail. Subtle nuances that make you think of the real performance are in abundance. This one is a keeper.

all the best,

Phil