Is there a"giant Killer" CDP ?

Sorry to confuse the issue but I think the answer to your question depends on what you, and those that respond to this question, can hear (multiple meanings intended).

I have both a Sony SCD-555ES and a Wadia 861xi hooked into the same system. I have conducted blind tests, playing the same redbook cd on each to see if they can be distinguished.

Many people cannot tell one from the other. Some can tell the difference accurately, consistently, descriptively, and unfailingly.

I own the Capitole Mk 2 and Prima, for 2 different systems. I have compared the Prima to the Capitole and the Capitole is just a little bit better, not by much. The Capitole Mk 2 is considered by many to be one of the best players at any price, so this really says something about the Prima.

I've had the accuphase seperates, and a capitole mkII(the capitole is light years ahead of the accuphase, sonically- and at a fraction of the cost). Right now I am listening to a $149 toshiba DVD/CD player and let me tell you, it SUCKS! heh heh. It is just temporarily until the standard reference for digital shows up- EMM labs :) and it can't get here soon enough.

Tim: You probably just need a $600 power cord, $1K set of interconnects and $2-300 worth of "fancy footwork" to make that Toshiba really sing in your system. Give that a shot and then let us know what you think : ) Sean
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And now back to our regularly scheduled program...

The Music Hall MMF25 is the only player I know of which can be called a giant killer.

Actually, it is not really a giant killer, because it does not kill any of the giants(Electrocompaniet, Audio Aero, Granite, etc.), but it is the best budget CD player on the market right now.

I am not such a big fan of CD sound, but this $600 player leaves me very impressed. It isn't the best I know, but you would have to spend 3X as much to take a definitive step up. It is truly an audiophile level component. Again, not the best, but points you in the direction.