Wadia and Accuphase have the best transports in the business. I'm a fan of build quality and transport quality. The Opus did't seem that well built to me when I saw it at the show two weeks ago.
BTW, for rock and pop, the EMC and AA probably aren't your best bet.
The Accuphase is great, but too expensive in the US. The Wadia 861 might be a better bet.
Finally, ergonomics are a big issue for me, and may be somethign to consider. For instance, many cdps come with horrible remotes (cary for example). Also, i can't stand top loaders/clamps. They are a royal pain to use, and no one else who comes over will have a clue. You might want to hit some stores and do a little playing with actually using the machine.
Cheers,
KeithR
BTW, for rock and pop, the EMC and AA probably aren't your best bet.
The Accuphase is great, but too expensive in the US. The Wadia 861 might be a better bet.
Finally, ergonomics are a big issue for me, and may be somethign to consider. For instance, many cdps come with horrible remotes (cary for example). Also, i can't stand top loaders/clamps. They are a royal pain to use, and no one else who comes over will have a clue. You might want to hit some stores and do a little playing with actually using the machine.
Cheers,
KeithR