Sony SCD-1:Is it time to tweak or upgrade to new?

I have had a SCD-777 mod'ed by Modwright. The full fledged mod with tubes. The player is quite a different piece. Large improvements throughout, most noticeably in lower grain and hardness. Nice delineation, yet musical. I have not heard the ultra high-cost players, but this modded Sony has bettered my previous digital, CEC/Audio Note.

As a sidenote, my Sony also had problems reading certain cds. Both SACD and redbook. Prior to the upgrade, Dan of Modwright had the unit repaired under warranty, by Sony. Loading still takes time...could clean an album and stylus in less time, but it always gains tracking.

I would like to upgrade my sony scd c555es. Please tell me how to contact Richard Kern, Modwright, or anyone else that can help me. How much would a major Mod cost? My higest goal is to greatly improve my redbook cd play back. I am trying to avoid spending $2000 on a highend cd player. Thank you for any help.

Jadem6, at $10k it's competition would be Meitner's SACD DAC. Read the following RE: PFO's David Robinson (Mr. "I don't Drive Stock") who switched from a hot-rodded SCD-1 to the stock Meitner.

http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/dvda/messages/7909.html
http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/hirez/messages/128800.html
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue6/stock.htm

Kern has new tricks up his sleeve, which he, at least, feels put him solidly in the Meitner ballpark. Maybe it's just one new trick, the transformer mod.

Richard Kern of Audiomod e:mail at RKern70055@aol.com or by phone at (503)659-6599 or (503)490-860