I have owned two of the players on your list, the Cary 306/200 and currently the Audiomeca Mephisto 11.X. I found the Cary an excellent cdp but wanted to go to the next level. I auditioned the Audio Aero Captiole and found it exceptional but was concerened about built quality and somewhat confusion on my part about all the upgrades available on a new model. I finally decided on an Audiomeca Mephisto 11.X and couldn't be more pleased. It is one of the most musical cdp I have heard, the frequency extremes are extended and the midrange is liquid and transparent. Good luck.
Favorite one box C.D.??
Really stuck between adding an external DAC or going to a great one box solution. Some names that come to mind are Cary 306/200, ARC CD3, Electrocompaniet EMC1 UP, AudioMeca Meridian 508.24 as well as a few others. I really like detail yet without the harshness of digital or digital glare. Any and all opinions would be valued.
Good Listening and Happy Holidays to all,
Steve Bachman
Good Listening and Happy Holidays to all,
Steve Bachman