Sony SACD-1 vs ML39..Which is best overall?

They're both very good, and you have to be pretty golden eared for the difference to be meaningful to you. The ML39 gives a good, honest presentation with a flat frequency response, decent dynamics, and good detail. In comparison, the SCD1 sounds a little rolled off on the high end, which actually makes it sound smoother and richer, a la tubey, but not in a very pronounced way. For example, cymbal sounds have a "shhhhh" character on the SCD1 versus a "ssssss" character on the ML39. It's a small difference, and I hope I'm not just hearing different hands on the mastering boards. The SCD1 has similar dynamics but seems to enjoy better detail retrieval. Quiet sounds have more shape, better definition, a beginning-middle-and-end to them, versus a small splash of mainly middle sound on the ML39. It becomes a question of your taste. By the way, I recently upgraded my ML39 to the ML390s. With the upgrade, the unit sounds much more dynamic, punchier, and somewhat brighter. It's clearly better. I prefer the ML390s over the SCD1 because I like bigger dynamics more than better delicacy.

Nice comparison and review of the two components Jameswei-- thanks, and Cheers. Craig.

Hi Craig. Being a former No. 39 owner and having auditioned the Sony SCD1, I would suggest your try to hear the Audio Aero Capitole 24/124 before making a final purchase.

For me at least, it was a clear winner, hands down, even over the Sony playing SACD's.

Good luck!