SACD...around $3500?

I have to admit I somewhat discounted the OppoBDP83 only because of it's incredible low cost. I must check into it as well as the hot-rod Oppos via Modright and others.

Metralla, were you referring to an OppoBDP83 SE version being introduced on Monday?

Thanks everyone!

Yes. If you can stand the fairly rabid fans ...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1194011

Regards,

Just a suggestion - why not go for a used Marantz SA-7S1 or Cary 306 Professional? A great review here: http://www.10audio.com/marantz_sa-7s1_cary_306pro.htm
I wish I had the resources to get one of them.

I've listened to a lot of SACD players at various shows. Ended up with the Sony XA5400ES - until I can find one that really sounds better. I was not impressed with the Marantz offering. You need to go with the Esoteric 2 box P03/D03 to hear something really good. The Ayre C-5xe MP sounds very good and I might buy one. Unless I can get enough money for an EMM somehow. The EMM 2 box DAC2/TSD1 is really special.
Ayre has a new player based on the Oppo multi-drive. The C-5xe sounded better on SACD.
Have not heard the Oppo but suspect it's trying to do too much.
The XA5400SE is heavy and well built. Fantastic bargain for SACD if you are playing 2 channels. Red Book is also very good (but after playing SACD they all sound like junk).

I disagree w/ Mrthunder and like the Marantz S11 S2 and S11 S1 quite a bit. Smooth, resolving enough, and completely musical. Great warranty.