SACD vs Analog

FWIW, my Project RPM10.1 with Sumiko BB and Bel Canto Phono3 seriously outperforms my EMM Labs XDS1. It's that scary :)

Depending on your tastes, you might also want to consider the VPI Classic. I heard the original with the JMW 10.5" arm which has a warmer sound than the Project.

A Rega P9 will not only outperform the SACD but also give you a good dose of that high end digital sound. More importantly do you have the vinyls to start this journey or are you willing to start afresh ?

IMO, you can probably equal or exceed the quality of your digital set-up using a VPI Traveler, an Audio Technica OC9ML/II and any number of decent phono stages.

As far as sound quality goes, you will probably like vinyl better. Before you commit yourself and buy gear, I highly recommend you listen to some records first. There will be some noise (tics, pops etc). Even with good equipment, you will hear some of that. Also, depending on the type of music you listen to, the noise you hear can vary. If you listen to something like rock, you will hear a lot less noise than you would with music that is not "loud" all the time, like classical.

If you decide to try records, here is some equipment I would consider. VPI scout, Dynavector 20x2 low output, Dynavector P-75 phono preamp, Dynavector SDS speed control, VPI 16.5 record cleaning machine.

Analog, properly implemented, will bring a whole new dimension to your listening. I have many SACD's but they are no match for their analog equivalents. I think a good staring point, if you like jazz is Miles Blue. I have 'Blue' in every media format ever issued. Yes, even an eight track tape. Blue is a good source to experience just how superior analog is. Included in my media of 'Blue' is an original two track, reel to reel, pre recorded analog tape. It blows away each of the SACD versions I have. Enough said.