I recently put the Resolution Audio Opus 21 up against the Wadia 301 for a long home trial. The Resolution Audio Opus 21 won in most every category except, a) sense of slam and authority, and b) tank like build quality (including its huge size). In the categories that mattered most to me, like clarity, lack of digititus, soundstage, articulation of each instrument, etc., the Opus 21 won the day. I have also compared it to the $4,500 Naim player and the Older Theta gear. All are bested by the Opus 21.
Best CD player directly to Amp?
I'm thinking of letting go of my Pass Labs X-1 preamp and get a good CD player that has a integrated volume control that can directly drive my Rowland model 10 Amp into a pair of Revel Salons. Alot of people has raved about the Audio Aero Capitole, but the new one is coming out now and it's out of my price range. I could probably swing around $5,000 right now for a new or used player. Any suggestions appreciated.