Considering a Spectral AMP - CD compatibility?

My thing with Spectral has always been;once you buy their piece,--you have to buy into the "whole-chain". I like things that allow diversification. I'm not saying that the "whole-chain" isn't great;just not for me as a tube person.

I think that you will find a HUGE difference in tonal qualities and presentation between the Spectral and McCormack. I would make sure that this is the direction that you want to go before plunking down the money as a "done deal". See if you can work something out with the dealer or seller before you have to make a permanent commitment. Sean
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I can't advise you on the Arcam player, but I own Spectral electronics and have heard Spectral amps and pre's with about a dozen front ends, including recording equipment and mass market players. Spectral amps normally maintain their character of neutrality, speed, detail, low noise, etc. in the combinations I've heard, however, they do not camouflage the cd or player performance or sound, so it's best to stay with a front end having your same 'maximum information, minimum fatigue' requirements.
Also, the very holographic and detailed presentation with end-to-end Spectral/MIT is dependent on the 2000/3000 combination ( IMO, one of the most refined front ends available) ,the best in MIT cabling, and the overall system design compatability, so it will not represent the sound of other combinations. But I've also heard raves about Spectral amps/pre's configured with SACD, dCS, and Wadia, so you should make a point of hearing the Arcam and Spectrals together.