CD Player or New Format?

It may be helpful to list the $$ range you will be shopping in. I have not heard the Esoteric X-01 (SACD/CD) or UX-1 (universal) players, so I can't say how they compare with top players doing CD. However, I heard the DV-50. This is a very good universal player, but, it can be bettered by CD players doing only CD. There are inevitable compromises when a machine has to do more than one task. If you are looking in a lower price range, I bet the compromises will be even more extreme.

Even though I own about 70 SACDs, I decided to focus on a very good CD-only player. To me, the advantages of SACD and DVD-A are not that significant, while the limitations in available software further decreases the attractiveness of this format.

I do not know, i wouldn't want to spend more than $1,000. I have modest system as it is. Is there a problem with universal players playing CD's? If they don't (have a problem), wouldn't option of playing SACD and DVD-a's be an advantage? Thanks!

DVD-A definately does NOT sound best. Both formats are excellent. Since you like classical, clearly more titles are available on SACD.

I think it is sound advice to place Redbook at the top of your criteria list. That is, unless your budget allows you to consider top shelf multi-format players, like the DV-50 mentioned.

In other words, lower priced players, for the most part, compromise one or the other.

Way things are shaking out get a redbook player.There may be many good DVD/SACD/DVD-A combo bundles this holiday season.

If you are looking for a universal player for $1,000 or under I would seriously consider taking a listen to a Yamaha S2300 universal player. Sure it isn't going to compete with some of the players listed above but should it at a fraction of the cost. I own the S2300 and really think it is a great value. I use it for cd/sacd/dvd-a and dvd movies in my home theater. You can get one used for around $600-$750. I think it will always be a part of my system even when I upgrade to a higher end redbook/sacd player like Sony's scd xa-9000es which is a superb player especially for the money $3000 new $1700 used. I am saving for the Sony and will probably keep the Yamaha for dvd-a and dvd videos. I know some people have said denon's universal player was better than the yamaha for the same price. I don't have first hand experience with the Denon though. IMO I think SACD is the best format available but I do really enjoy DVD-A also. Good luck.