Best cd player

I also vote for the Sony XA7ES. I can't tell the difference between its output when used direct to pre-amp or when routed through my excellent Muse Model Two DAC.

Donald is right-on about the Sony SACD player. It makes music! Also, Pioneer has a new DVD player that plays both the DVD 24/96 AND the SACD format. I have not heard that unit and can't comment. Check out their site for that model.

given the budget, best dac theta gen va and work with theta when the upgrade to 24/96 is available. i would match this with the theta jade transport. THIS IS ONE OF THE TOP FIVE DIGITAL FRONT ENDS BAR NONE AT ANY PRICE!!!!! i recommend picking up a used gen va for about $2000 and you may have to go with a new jade but a new one is about $2500. WAY UNDER YOUR TARGET OF $8000. state of the art digital front end and its UPGRADEABLE as technology changes. i lay down anyone to challenge this performance/price combination and its upgradeability.

I have owned many players and the two that have stood out are the Krell 30i and the CAL CL-10. The 30i versatility of several digital inputs makes it's DAC available for many transports. I also have a Sony SACD 777es which is nice but does sound better when in regular CD mode coming thru the 30i.

have you heard of the new electrocompaniet ECM-1 top loading cd player? retail price is $3995.00, the word is it's very analog like! I am a new dealer for this product and have one on order. please reply if interested.