I got one of the first ones and I can tell you that the Wadia 301 takes a long time to break-in, about 100 hours minimum and 150 is better. It also needs a high quality power cord to sound it's best- I'm using a PS Audio Mini Lab Cable running through a PS Audio Ulitmate Outlet.
My friend has a Wadia 860-x and we did extensive comparisons with the 301. Our conclusion was that the 301 was better than the old 850 (we both owned 850's), and very nearly as good as the 860-X. When running CD direct, you will gain more inner detail, but the trade-off is a narrower soundstage than when using a good preamp. There is also a bit more of a digital sound when running CD direct.
The 301 could easily disappoint in a dealer demo situation if the above items aren't addressed. It's quite revealing and can reveal any weak links (including its own lack of break-in). But it can also be quite impressive if proper attention is paid.
My friend has a Wadia 860-x and we did extensive comparisons with the 301. Our conclusion was that the 301 was better than the old 850 (we both owned 850's), and very nearly as good as the 860-X. When running CD direct, you will gain more inner detail, but the trade-off is a narrower soundstage than when using a good preamp. There is also a bit more of a digital sound when running CD direct.
The 301 could easily disappoint in a dealer demo situation if the above items aren't addressed. It's quite revealing and can reveal any weak links (including its own lack of break-in). But it can also be quite impressive if proper attention is paid.