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Which is the best CD-Player up to $ 10k ?

I´m looking for a very good cd-player in the price range up to 10k to be paired with my new Ayon Audio Sunfire single ended tube integrated.

On my short list are Wadia 581SE, Audio Research CD-7, Ayre C-5xe, Esoteric X-01 Ltd. and Audio Aero Prestige SE

Main music preference is classical music, opera, and electronic music.

Speakers are Ayon Audio with ceramic drivers.

Cabelling is all Shunyata Research (but is planned to be exchanged with either Virtual Dynamics or Stealth Audio)

Any input regarding these units is highly appreciated. Thanks fellows !
frankpiet
cincy_bob
270 posts
 
That's right, Audiohifila, the AMR cannot play SACDs. However, with hybrid discs, I prefer by a wide margin the sound of the AMR playing back the PCM layer to the sound of the EMM Labs SE separates playng back the SACD layer. Since nearly all my SACDs are hybrid discs, it was an easy decision for me to go back to a digital source without SACD capabilities.

Nonetheless, once the Playback Designs player arrives, I guess I'll be back in the SACD game...
argyro
438 posts
 
Bottom line is that both the EMM and the AMR are great players. The rest is system and "ear" dependant!
frankpiet OP
307 posts
 
I´ve bought the Nagra CDP - a great sounding and very well build cd-player with the most accurate sound I´ve ever heard from a cd-player. It´s for sure nothing for overly bright systems or all tube lovers. But in combination with tube amplification the cdp is a dream machine (at a very high price point). Unfortunately none of my emails was answered by playback designs. Bad customer service I would say. The amr was to warm in my system but played very well in a friend system with solid state amplification.
lapierre
547 posts
 
Synergy Frankiet. Synergy.

At that price level you have to audition these components in your rig to determine a great match.

Keep us updated with the sound of your system.

Enjoy
vmk
41 posts
 
Playback Designs MPS-5 player is certainly worth an
audition. I'm amazed by its ability to sound so smooth
and dynamic with just the right about of resolution. Customer service is very good. Jonathan
and Andraes were very responsive to my questions and
concerns.
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