Ayon CD2 is AMAZING

Besides, isn't the point of an analog setup to surpass the sound quality of CD's?
Afc

Exactly. My CD-2 sounds exceptionally good in my system, some recordings like FIM's Gilberto and Getz and Oscar Peterson recording were jaw dropping the first couple of spins. 5K is about what I can muster for an analog set-up, so if it can approximate the sound of the CD-5 it will be worth it .

Afc I would be interested in how you like your new TT. and what CDP you have

I like the turntable. The Champion Limited package comes with the Unify tonearm and the Aurum Beta S MM cartridge. Clearaudio screwed up my order- they sent the table with the clear plinth instead of the black plinth. So, as compensation, they upgraded the cartridge to the MC Talismann free of charge. It's got a very detailed sound, more "live" than CD. It lacks the bottom slam of the CD player, though.

Nice, a bit different from CD. I like it, sounds very nice, and I have some stuff on vinyl that was never put on CD.

My CDP is the Ayon CD5.

Afc,
thanks for the perspective, very helpful. I have been debating getting a TT or not. I do not own any vinyl, so a TT may not be a wise choice for me.
A high end one box solution like the Ayon CD5 may be an option to look into eventually. I think for now I will just purchase more well recorded digital and enjoy the CD2. I know my bank account will appreciate it.

Bassraptor: You are using the CD 07. I have to say I am very tempted by it, it is significantly cheaper than the CD 2. Have you, or anyone else compared it with the more expensive models. I would be very interested in the differences.

I had the CD2 for about three months before getting the CD5. The CD5 smokes the CD2. Better resolution, better bass slam, tighter....just an all around much better performer, as it should be for nearly double the price.

Jazzy, if you don't own any old vinyl that you're seriously jonesing to hear, I'd stick with the CD2 for now. Getting a TT to match the sound of that player requires some bucks- and you don't have any vinyl to use with it. Would better spend that money getting the CD5.