Sony XA5400ES vs Rega Saturn:Which sounds better??

"I have seen told that the SACD capability of the Sony will enhance the sound quality of standard "red book" CDs This has to be a plus factor for the Sony Thanks, Jim "

That's not true. I don't know who told you that but SACD compatibility has nothing to do with redbook sound quality.

I also had a 9000ES. I bought it to try SACD. If you have other sources, the Sony may be a problem. When I had it in my system, it used to make all of my other components sound bad. I haven't heard the 5400, but there has to be a chance the same thing will happen. I would consider other brands and not just Sony.

Sunnyjim,

if you need or were looking to get into SACD, then choose a Sony ES.

For regular red-book cd, choose the Rega- the Saturn will be a sweeter upgrade to your Apollo.

Thank you to those members who have responded. Looks like I am back to square one again. Nevertheless, I may just go with the Cambridge Audio 840C. I say "may" because I always thought of Cambridge Audio as glorified mid-fi.

To Jafant, I was not particularly interested in getting into SACD. As I indicated I have read several times on this site that SACD can/could enhance the sound of redbook CDs, but ZD542 claims otherwise.

Yes, the Saturn would be a wise choice( especially if it is a major upgrade from the Apollo). There has been a dry spell for used Saturns on AG; and, unfortunately the two which recently surfaced for sale on AG, had their transports replaced by Rega.....Not exactly a vote of confidence for that model.

I have found from experience that Rega products are very reliable. However, I don't want to spend $1100 for a used Rega Saturn that may have the same problem again, or laser problems. I will not spend half Saturn's original retail for a new one. The player's design is at least 7 years old, and the player was grossly overpriced when it was came on the market in 2006.....I appreciate your comments.

The Sony 5400 playback on SACD or Red book CD is very, very good.

All Rega audio gear is "run of the mill" British MidFi!