If you want a deep, wide soundstage and a huge open sound this is a no brainer.....ARC CD-8.....stop your search.
Audio Research Ref CD8 vs Esoteric X03SE
Looking to take my digital front end up a few notches and am looking at the CD8 and the X03SE. I have an Audio Research Ref3 preamp, Pass Labs X250.5 amp, and Magnepan 20.1 speakers and want a CD player with good bottom end control and extension. Need help deciding.