cdp comparision shopping

I have a Theta Miles and like it a lot. When I bought it I compared to Linn, Cary, and ARC CD3. The ARC sounded best to me but was 2K more. The Theta, in my system, clearly beat out the others........... So I went with the Theta. BTW you are on the right track with the balanced version with this player.

Re: Cary 303-100. I would consider spending a little more and putting the 303-200 on your list instead of the 100.
I have the 303-200 and find it very musical.
You'd be not only getting a better sounding cdp but in all likelyhood a lower hour unit. I think it would be cost effective to get the newer model since you wont have a warrenty on either.
I also have the emm labs set up but get more time on the cary because of Philips 1000 breakdowns. (I have 2 dead Philips and am waiting delivery of the new Emm transport).
The cary doesen't have the detail of the Emm gear but does sound very good in my system.

I second the recommendation of the Quad 99cd-p. I currently own this player and it is excellent for the price (I paid $800 used) an can be bought new for under $1500.

I previously owned the Theta Miles Balanced and it was a nice player. I haven't compared them head to head, but from memory, I prefer the Quad 99 cd-p. Also, the Theta is getting a bit old. Although it has the excellent Pioneer stable platter transport, it's going to be difficult to find one that doesn't have significant hours on it.

If your other components are fully balanced, the Theta might be a great choice if you can find a "low mileage" one.

Enjoy,

TIC

Thanks for all the help and suggestions...greatly appreciated...Larry

Try the Vecteur L4.2. the unit is not very well known but is a killer CD player. Very detailed yet not bright. Massive soundstage and very clean sounding.