would the Sony SCD 5400 Ex make a good transport?

I have the 5400 modified by Dan Wright at ModWright. I never heard the stock 5400, but can tell you my ModWright 5400 competes with my 20k vinyl rig and does not sound edgy or bright in the least. He has a new mod coming up that will allow you to run the 5400 as a DAC with a digital input. I can't imagine getting a better cd/sacd player for under 10k.

Podeschi I owned the Playback Designs 7 cd player that retails for 15,000.00. The Sony Modright 5400 easily beat the PD and is 5 times less costly.

Sorry called the PD 5 player.

Am playing the Sony through (XRCDs, CDs and SACDs...prefer sonics in that order) my new VAC gear. I have to believe the Modwright Sony is the most value for the buck I've ever received from a piece of audio gear. Amazing how good this sounds -- non-digital, on par with vinyl for the most part (better dynamics, not quite the full smooth organic warmth tho that my Benz/Graham/Clearaudio/Herron give me).
Darrin

Darrin you need to change tubes in the Sony and power supply to get its full potential. If you are looking for a more organic sound I would recommend the Sylvania 5692 made in the 50's, also RCA 6SN7 GTB. I would change the rectifier tube to a Mullard 5AR4. I would also buy 6SN7 Tungsol Black Plate just to have a very nuetral tube, expect to pay 500 a pair. I would also get the Tungsol made in the 60's these are cheaper and also sound good. You need to replace both power cords and I recommend the Coincident power cords which are great on the Sony. I would also fool around with interconnects on the Sony the Siltech sound is nice and full for example. I compared the modright Sony to the Playback Design model 5 (15,0000) and the Sony beat it. You will also want to change the 6SN7 in the VAC amp and if you have their preamp you will want to change those as well.