CD player, audio out, discrete vs. op-amps..?

It's "possible" that the op -amp could play a role in what you hear. I've read that they rely on generous amounts of NFB. A discrete circuit can be designed with little or no NFB used. Just a generalization(other varibles as well at play). The best test is to listen and judge the individual players of interest.

Mordante,
I'd agree that there must be good sounding CD players/DACs that use Op amps and implementation is vital as always. It does seem that many designers attempting to aim for higher echelon quality sound do avoid Op amps and prefer discrete analog circuits in their place. We all can acknowledge that other design factors are important. I can't help but notice that as you climb higher into price/quality levels discrete circuit use is the dominant route chosen. Is this a coincidence or is there some correlation? I have to assume that this is done for a reason, designers must believe that it contributes to better sound.

I can't begin to make the claim that I've heard every digital player. I can only relate that the best sounding have all utilized discrete circuits. Mordante could you kindly list the Op amp based players that you've heard with very good sound quality?
Thanks Much,
Charles,

I think we may have both missed the other's point.Whatjd made an observation about the better sound he's heard from discrete curcuit players. I can understand why he feels that way based on my own experience. You are correct, there's no stated budget. Depending on his budget some good sounding Op amp players could be serious contenders for him to consider. I hope that is more clear.When all is said and done, listening will determine his final choice rather than specific aspects of a player's design.
Charles,