Best CDP in the $4k to $8k range

I find the player has great sense of balance with great inner detail and nice highs without being forward or etched. Its a player that lets you just enjoy the music.

My second choice would be AR CD3. I think its a great player. It may err on the side of warmth, but its probably the most seductive player I have heard. Its a full sounding player that has great bass extension and clean highs. I am not sure why we never hear more about this player.

I also familar with the Cary 306/200 which I prefer over the 303/200. I think this player does a lot of things well, but lacks the clarity & upper-end detail of the Ayre. I have also heard the Wadia 301 & 302. I thought both were fine players, but analytical for my taste. Its not a player I would enjoy in my system. I have not heard the 861, though. I also agree with your comments on the Esoteric DV50.

I would recommend listening to the Ayre CX-7e as well as their new higher-end, CX5e. At this price range, most players do well. Its a matter of preference and system matching.

I would recommend the Audio Aero Capitole II, if price is no object. (It retails for about $9500, with the Analouge inputs), but used can be found for about $5,500 with the inputs and about $4,500 wtihout.)

My friend and I heard the Capitole II at a dealers audition, (we were there to hear the Lamm amps, btw, which sounded great.) We were both impressed by this cdp.
I will admit that it sounds slightly better than my Resolution Audio Opus 21, although not by much. (If you want to save money, the Opus 21 is $3,500 new and around $2,500 new, and it has a volume control output also.)
My friend has had a Opus 21, and he agreed with me about the Capitole II also. He has owned the Esoteric DV50 and sold it as he preferred the Opus 21.

I have heard good things about the Ayre, but have not actually heard it.

My two cents worth. Good Luck in your search!

I would look at the Naim CDX2 or CDX3, The reimyo CDP-777, and the 47 labs flatfish/progression trans/DAC combo. My favorite CDP out there is the Reimyo. I think it kills everything else on the market althought the naim 3 is also amazing

Try a Linn Ikemi!

Good Luck!*>)

I agree with Kurt_tank. The Capitole MKII is an outstanding player. I owned the Opus 21, and believe the Capitole to be considerably better. More body to the music, and a far more seductive sound. Still, I would have a look at the modded players. The Modwright and Exemplar are said to be very good, though I've not heard them. We have an APL modded 3910 with the new AKM DAC chip, and frankly even the Capitole is not in the same league. As always, it's just my opinion.