I've owned a Wadia 21 for 8 or 9 years now. I bought it new. It has performed flawlessly for that time. I've always used it direct into a power amplifier. Presently it is driving a ML-335 which drives Wilson Sophia's using Transparent cable. A couple of years ago I listened to a ML-390S in my system, but did not hear any compelling reason to change the Wadia. I wish the Wadia had a hefty metal remote control rather than a plastic one. Until a CD/SACD player with a good volume control comes out, I'm sticking with the Wadia. Hope this helps.