Meridian 808.2 vs Dcs Puccini with clock vs. Zande

Meridian 808.2 is a very good player; low level detail retrieval is excellent and the ability to drive amplifiers direct is implemented very well but treble ime was extremely bright and the remote was garbage (although it worked fine, every time it's used the fan in it spins up). However, if you're using tube based products and/or cables that roll off the treble, the 808.2 might be an excellent fit.

But the AMR and save some cash. That is the most "analog" sounding as you say...

Hi
I auditioned the Meridian back to back with Chord Blu transport and DAC64
The Meridian was very disappointing lacking the sparkle and detail retrieval of the Chord pairing

Is SACD an option or a need to have. If it is optional try to hear the Vitus SCD010 (difficult to audition as it does not have a huge brand presence in the US) as it is exceptional on redbook. I will be comparing it to the Puccini over the next couple of weeks....