What is the best transport?

Alex,
You make compelling observations but again, some will counter and say switching power supplies can equal or outperform linear supplies. You mentioned " mechanical" sound and I know exactly what you are referring to. You and Steve (Empirical Audio) are well respected manufacturers who represent very informed but opposing views.I appreciate both of you, personal listening experience sways me toward your perspective.
Charles,

Charles,
Even the latest super-quitet switching power supplies lack against a linear one, at least this is my experience. It is probably because a switching power supply cannot provide linear impedance vs. frequency, which results in mechanical sound, especially at the upper mids and highs.

Well, I have mentioned what vinyl rig I use for a reference. Maybe Steve will tell us what is his?

IMO, unless you compare to SOTA analog, there is no point claiming how good digital sounds.

For example, I have every digital copy ever made (CD and SACD) of Ella and Louis first mono recording. While the latest Analogue Productions SACD sounds most natural of all, it is still far away from the vinyl I have made by Speakers Corner Records in Germany. Now I can't wait to receive my Analogue Production 45rpm copy! :-)

Best wishes,
Alex Peychev
APL Hi-Fi

Alex I also tried a lot of those Ella cd's including FIM's xrcd and think the SACD is best. None are as good as my original 1955 mono verve record. I think you should look for this as original pressings in good shape in most cases sound better than 33 or 45 reissues. Jeff

Jeff,

I've been lusting over such a copy for quite some time now, but wasn't sure it will sound as good. :-)

Thanks for your input, I appreciate it! Will buy it and let you know.

Best wishes,
Alex Peychev
APL Hi-Fi

Just check Ebay Alex an the V on the label should be yellow in color. Most records I buy on ebay are good, but once in a while you get one where the record looks perfect, but the grooves are worn by a bad table or arm setup.