hi-end universal players?

I have the Marantz, on CD 1 out , which you use for High res , there is their HDAM output device, on CD 2 out, its a cheap op amp. Solution, listen to redbook on the High Res output {same input as you would use for a 2 channel SACD for example}. Big Difference , I discovered this by accident, and I understand the original Phillips machine is built the same way. Also like many high rez players , especially for SACD, insane amount of break in time is required.

Esoteric, Primare, Theta, Bel Canto, Linn, Denon (?), Lexicon, Integra, Marantz, ...what have I left out?

Among these,

Theta I hear is great with their new DAC but then that adds substanital cost
Linn is too expensive when the incremental sound quality compared to others is questionable in my opinion: its just their way of trying to recoup development costs of their chip set which they did alone....not a good reason
Denon, Integra, Lexicon all good value, but probably lacks true hi end quaility (perhaps not the Lexicon)
Bel Canto similiar in price to Linns
Thus Esoteric if u are considering a budget of US$5000 or lower?

To ryoung: Could you please be specific about the ways the Bel Canto universal player beats the Esosteric DV-50? Is it better than the Linn Unidisk (the best universal I've heard so far)? Exactly what makes it so special? Thanks!

Has anyone heard the new MCormack universal player?

I was wondering the same as Pardales. I have a McCormack MAP-1 pre-amp and love it. I figured the UDP-1 player would be real good. HOWEVER, let me get on my soap box. I truly believe that the best bet in the long run is to find a player that does ONE THING VERY WELL. If you want great redbook play, get a great redbook player, etc.

IMHO.

Tom