Is this a deal or what ....

The Wadia sound now is very Digital & dry. This is due almost entitely to the newer algorythym they were using in the last 5 years. They now offer selective modes for the user to choose. So you can sort through the menu to find the two or three newer ones, or the one older original software version. This is the one that sounds best. It is the one the Wadia #9 uses. The 7&9 combo is still very good. The 7 can be modified by Steve at Great Northern Sound for about $1500-2,0000 to put it at world class level. I know I own one ! The 9 has glass only input. There is no physical room to install an AES/EBU board. If there was......This could still be a world class contender with a few other internal parts updates. As far as the original question of "is it worth it for $5,800 bucks" Hell yes !If you haven't heard the 7&9. Don't bother ytrying to knock it.

Of the Cd players mentioned here on audiogon I only had the chance to audition Wadia Audio Aero Mark II. It is sometimes difficult to compare systems in different stores as the rooms, amp and speakers are not at all alike.

Since I knew I was going to buy here on audiogon I only asked the sales attendants if I could just listen for a bit while not interrupting normal business. Of course it would have been wrong to request a home audition.

With the above disclaimer, I bought the AA it was no contest with the Wadia. I am very happy with the unit. I did have to send it to the shop in Texas but this was not a big problem as I air freighted it on Wednesday and I had it back, fixed and working perfectly in less than ten days. The cost was not at all that much, especially considering this was the only place I could get it repaired.

I, too am a bit anxious to get Tireguy's opinion of the EMM in his home as his satisfaction with the AA has been very high. Still, I doubt I will be shelling out the big bucks as I am very happy with my AA eventhough I could at this thime probably sell my AA for more than I paid for it.

A fellow Audiophile purchased the Krell KAV 280cd for big $$$ not too long ago,and sold it for 1/2 of what he paid only after 6 months or ownership.Technology never stops moving forward,whats cutting edge today is obsolete tommorrow.Wadia makes fantastic units but the company seems to be one step behind in their ability to keep up with changing digital landscape.

Tireguy - The only DACs that I have heard that sound analog without HF rolloff are:

1) EMM labs
2) PT P-3A with Turbomod and superclock2