Since you're including Redbook only players in your shootout, a Redbook CD payback system that cost less than most of the units on your, would be a Stello CDT200 transport with a TacT S2150 or TDA2200. No mods or analog amp are required. Just add speakers, good cables and enjoy.
Digital Direct SHOOTOUT
Ok, here it is, the royal shootout of CD players direct into an amp, sans preamp. Who has the best combination of liquid mids, PRAT, great bass, authority and control while maintaining transparency and pinpoint imaging. Let's hear it....
Resolution Audio Opus 21
Audio Aero Capitole MK II
Audio Aero SACD Player
APL Denon 3910
Burmester 001
Meitner CDD Transport/DCC2
Wadia 861
Esoteric D01/P01 combo
Anything else????
I am guessing some of these will offer the best mids, or the best transparency, but overall, which has the best balance of richness and detail?
Resolution Audio Opus 21
Audio Aero Capitole MK II
Audio Aero SACD Player
APL Denon 3910
Burmester 001
Meitner CDD Transport/DCC2
Wadia 861
Esoteric D01/P01 combo
Anything else????
I am guessing some of these will offer the best mids, or the best transparency, but overall, which has the best balance of richness and detail?