$2,000 Used CD Player or Modified Oppo 105

Dbphd
You nailed exactly why I am having such a hard time deciding the best course of action. I have no interest in computer orientated source material at this particular time and HT has taken a back burner as well. I thought I might be able to upgrade my HT set up and 2 channel rig together using the 105 as a one source unit. I currently use a Oppo 83SE, but find the audio section much too sterile and actually use an Arcam DV29 for 2 channel. The Ayre C-5xeMP is at the top of my list for a pre owned CD player. I suspect I might be happier picking up a pre owned Ayre and keeping the 83SE for HT for now. Then possibly upgrading the HT set up down the road.

I expected the Ayre to sound good after all the rave reviews, but I was surprised by how good. Of course it's superb with DSD as expected, but it's also superb with CDs, and that was unexpected. If you play mostly DSD, the Sony is close, but if you play a lot of CDs, I think trying to find a pre-owned Ayre is a good way to go.

The 105 is no slouch, though. I think it's just not quite in the same league as the Ayre.

db

Lampi Amber dac group buy for $2250 with DSD here:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=129350.0

Bullitt -

did you not wish to add the Parasound cd player to your system? Many, many audiophiles feel this is the best player on the market at this juncture. I do see the player in the used market often- keep me posted and happy listening!