Sony SCD-XA777ES or SCD-1

Two years ago, I purchased an SCD-1, though I also have a 9000ES for video. I purchased it because it was a "statement" player from Sony. I viewed (and continue to view) the SACD capability of the player as a bonus, not the sole reason for buying it (although first-rate SACD's sound phenomenal on it). I have been entirely pleased with the player, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it. I particularly like the feature of being able to select among digital filters-depending on the recording, this is a very helpful feature. I would definitely go with an SCD-1.

I have an XA7ES, S9000ES and and an SCD-1. All basically Stock. The SCD-1 is the best, on redbook and SACD. (as would be predicted. ) I did A/B/C comparisons with all 3, level-matched. It was not subtle between XA7ES and SCD-1, the SCD1 bettered XA7 on redbook significantly.

-Ed

Sony, I am currently looking at a Wadia 861se(I'm also looking at the Musical Fidelities Tri-Vista player.) I sold a Meridian 508-24 to purchase the Sony for SACD purposes. The xa777es pretty much holds its own with that player. Its not better, just different. The Meridian has a warmer, more relaxed sound where the 777es isn't analytical, it's just more in that direction. I also owned a Sony SCD-1 and really didn't care for it(for the price.) I sold it to buy the Meridian. I know a lot of people like the SCD-1 but it just wasn't MY cup of tea. On CD's, I much prefered the Meridian sound although I did feel the Sony had a little more soundstage width(it also added a slight edge to the beginning edge of voices in my system.)
In your particular case, I would opt for the SCD-1 or the xa777es. Which one would depend on the system it would be used in.

Consider the Marantz SA-14.

SCD-1 as TRANSPORT only to outboard dac for redbook. I am finding the Audiologic 24MXL dac simply fabulous. SACD is good on the SCD-1, but with the above suggestion, you would have all the bases covered (budget-dependent suggestion of course).