The best CD Player for the money

APL 3910 .

I can easily see how the Consonance beats out most all you mention EXCEPT the Cayin model 17. It may /may not beat out the Cayin 15.
But as you say the Cayin 17 retails for $1800/USA, $1K HK. I think the Consonance is less. Now is it tube? If its not tube, it will not surpass the 15, and especailly not the 17.
ss units are not in the same leauge as tube players. Thats a fact.

>>ss units are not in the same leauge as tube players. Thats a fact.<<

Really? Esoteric, EMM, and Wadia will handily spank any Cayin and/or Consonance players. Tubes don't guarantee high performance. That is a fact.

You forgot the latest DCS gear too! ;)

I agree, I have yet to find a tubes source unit that has the bass, dynamics and HF extension to my personal likings.

I think alot of old school thinking is still in play with some audiophiles about tubes. The latest digital gear is much better than ever before due to latest chips and digital servo and transport technologies. Have a good day!

Try this "AMR" product. Haven't heard it but it looks serious...