Sony XA5400ES vs Rega Saturn:Which sounds better??


I probably ask this question before in other threads but with some variation of emphasis.. Nevertheless, I interested in upgrading my Rega Apollo. I would appreciate any advice about which player will sound better...that is more musical, with better bass and highs. I have read almost all the reviews, but I have no way of auditioning either player individually or side by side So I must draw on the experience and wisdom of other members who either owned or heard these players

I might have mentioned before, I have no interest in computer audio which I believe the Sony was partly designed to accommodate. 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
sunnyjim
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!
"Nevertheless, I may just go with the Cambridge Audio 840C."

I just made that same decision after selling my first 840C about 5 weeks ago. I knew I would regret selling it. I found another one a couple of weeks ago and quickly snatched it up.

"I say "may" because I always thought of Cambridge Audio as glorified mid-fi."

Glorified mid-fi or not, the 840C performs(as CD player and DAC) much higher up the chain than it's "mid-fi" designation, IMO.

I came close to getting a Sony XA5400ES after selling my 840C but did not pull the trigger. I really did not "need" another SACD or universal player(I own two Integra DPS-10.5's and Oppo 83). Then another 840C popped up and it made my decision much easier.

Bill