cayin cdt 17a vs. consonance cd 2.2

I have not heard the Cayin but I have the Cons Ref 2.2 and I love it. It offers both balanced and unbalanced (tube) output, like the Cayin. Some music I use one, some the other - very versatile, though for detailed music I prefer the balanced. The only piece of equipment I own I would not consider changing. Not sure where you plan to buy, but you may wish to view this link about a certain Cayin dealer:

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/1/107634.html

If the Cayin sounds even nearly as good as the Consonance, you'll likely be happy with either one. Good luck.

Have not heard the Consonance, but did have the Cayin 15, a nice cdp, but the tubes were changed out by original ower to Bugle Boys. Then i bought the 17 last summer, really nice sound, abit better than the 15, and worth the price. built like a tank and sweet sound.
Have not changed out the stock russian tubes. Yet
Paul

I had the Cayin cdt-15 and then got the Consonance Ref. 2.2. For me there was no contest. The Consonance was better by a margin, just like listening to a player on a different league.

If the CDT-17 is just marginally better than the CDT-15, then for sure the Ref 2.2 will still be a lot better.

Just my 2 cents.