SACD player for CD

I haven't ever heard the XA777ES, but I can third the SCD-1. I think most would agree it is in the upper echelon and competes well with other top redbook players.

I used a SCD 1 for several months and sold it. Compared to my Meridian 508-24, it just wasn't as good-period. SACD sounded ok but I was not going to rush out with a new format. It messed with female voices a little and just didn't sound as liquid (a slight edge existed). I have gone back to the Meridian and want be parting with it anytime soon.
I compared the SCD 1 with the 777ES before I bought the thing. I honestly felt the SCD 1 was a little better. Most people consider them equals other than the balanced outputs that the 777 doesn't have. Also, there is some difference between the 777 2 channel and the 777 multi - channel. I felt a slight degradation exists with the multi channel. I'm sure there will be some conflicting opinions as usual but it's not for me!

Give the Marantz SA-14 a listen. You can get a new one for around $2,000 and used about $1,200 to 1,500. I have not listened to any SACDs but assume your real quest is for a good redbook CD player that has SACD capability.

The SCD-777es used although I think you will have to stretch to around $1400. It is very good on redbook as well as SACD. Forget the Meridian it simply is not as good on redbook as the Sony (SCD-77es) is and on SACD the Sony is in another league. I have not personally experienced any players (SACD) in the $1000 price point; so I can not comment. Just my thoughts

Chuck

And Chuck, how long did you own the Meridian before you bought a 777?