The CDSAse is as good if not better than the separates. More natural in sound, with a smoother presentation. SACD is incredible and CD is just better than it was before. The one flaw that remains is a little dynamic softness and a slight smoothness in the bass that could use improvement. The differences are a little bit more than subtle having owned both. This is in comparison to the original separates, not the SE version. I would say that the new EMM separates is a different presentation and for some would be more detailed but for others would be considered over the line. I happen to like my the CDSAse the way it is. The newer models in comparison might be too forward for some. It really depends on the music and your system. You get more forward sound, but with it comes more bass, more highs and more detail. But there is a point where too much detail is not a good thing. There have been some very well written reviews that explain the EMM/Marantz/Esoteric soundcamps. I would say the new EMM equipment has moved over more to the Esoteric camp. I wouldn't mind having the money for both, but I don't.
