Is this the END of DAYS for the high end CD player

BTW, now is probably a good time to buy a high end CD player if you need one to get the most out of your existing CD collection for the foreseeable future because the prices for the players labeled "high end" will continue to go up over time (much like good turntables have over the last 25 years or so) as it becomes more and more of a niche market.

The flip side is that the technology will continue to only become better and cheaper so the real value of a "high end" player may diminish as a result of inexpensive players offering better competition.

Also, always watch out for snake oil. Higher price generally means better build quality and aesthetics but does not always translate into better sound/performance.

There are more hi end C.D. players being made now than ever . C.D. sales have slumped , but has the sales of hi end C.D.players ?

My guess is the market for CDs and players of all types is saturated in the US and other leading edge economies but still growing in less industrialized and emerging economies.

Regarding high end players specifically my guess is that sales are fairly level or somewhat down in general overall.

I would not buy stock in a company that only made CD players. Makers of FM tuners must be reading the handwriting on the walls. The future seems to be downloads, whether it be music, movies or TV shows. My audio system made a huge leap forward when I stored my CD's on my computer. Now, my favorite FM station is available via my Apple remote app. (and sounding much better than my FM tuner). I will be able to simplify my system and get better sound. Will miss the tuners signal strength meter, but such is life.

I dont see a future for very expensive machines that are CD only. But there will still be demand for stuff that can play a CD. Tons of "software". Used CDs can be had for a song, they are more durable than the LP record so shopping for used ones has less anxiety involved. The CD player or equivalent will be a part of systems for some time into the future. Unless you are willing to replace what you got with some sort of expensive hi rez. replacements. That is why alot of people kept up with LPs, they cannot get a CD of the same stuff, or figure why bother if the LP is in fine condition. I just bought a mid priced player with the seller eating the first 18 months of depreciation at a substantial savings over new. And broken in. BUt mint condx. My 12 year old player gave up and tech advancements dictate this might sound better. I dont give a dam for lo rez digital formats and hi rez is more scarce.