Which cd player: New /w Mod or just plain new?

Phaelon-

SACD is an attractive add on IHMO. I have 500 CD's and 15 SACD's.
It can be extraordinary and is nice to have the option.
If you like classical-definitely should be considered.
Just my opinion.

Phaelon - Yes that is a bit further away than one would probably care to travel, but there are a couple of people in your area that can demo TRL products for you. Hopefully they will extend an offer.

Lkdog- It's interesting that you tied in SACD with classical music. Iv'e been relatively unenthusiastic with my systems performance in that regard. Ironically, that was my main reason for getting involved. Ya know Lkdog, It's been about 15 years since I walked into my first high-end shop (with five hundred smackaroos) vowing to keep it simple. Now, here I am with cryogenic AC outlets and a wizz-bag of gagets I'd be too embarassed to admit to, even to you mugs. Well, why stop here. SACD huh?

If your budget can handle it, take a look a the new
Esoteric SZ-1 and UZ-1.

Lkdog - Phaelon

I have the full reference Modwright 999ES mod with cryo tubes. Is it the ultimate? At a total of $2,600 including the player probably not but I don't know how much you would have to spend to better it.

Regarding the sub integration of my REL Stadium III with the Utopias I am very satisified with seemless results I am getting. My room is not optimimal with acoustic treatments but with the correct crossover and volume level the sub goes unoticed. I am currently crossing it over at 46hz and have had it as low as 28hz. It depends on the electronics being used. You can get a feel pretty quickly on the correct settings. Also my speakers are playing full range and the sub just auguments the lower frequencies. After living with the sub for a couple of years I think it was a sound decision with these speakers. It gives them that extra bottom end and air that you can't achieve without it.