Linn Ikemi CD Player vs. Other Lower Cost Options


I am considering replacing my Meridian 508.20 CD player with another unit. The 508.20 CD player is connected to a Jeff Rowland Concentra integrated amplifier and ProAc 2.5 Speakers. I heard the Meridian 588 vs. the Ikemi and I liked the Linn (much better). I heard the Wadia 301 and found it too bright (possible setup problem). I liked the Rega Jupiter also but when compared to the Ikemi, the Linn was the winner (for my ears). The Ayre CX7 is an option that I need to listen to. Since the Linn Ikemi is expensive, does anyone have a recommendation for a similar high quality CD player than the Linn Ikemi but at a lower cost (like under $2,000)? For the cost and value, is the better option to upgrade my 508.20 to 508.24? Comments and suggestions are requested.
hgeifman

Showing 2 responses by hgeifman

Thanks for the above info. Do you have more info on Linn's universal players scheduled for later this year?
I have had no luck selling my Meridian 508.20 and I was not willing to give the unit away. So, I decided to upgrade my Meridian 508.20 to 24 bit status. The unit was shipped to Meridian for the upgrade and the expected turn around time is 4 weeks (including the shipping time). Thanks again for all your above comments.