I always find these forums interesting as individuals put forth thoughts as absolutes. I hope that the audiophiles out there have the sense to realize that the synergy between the components and that includes the room will determine how a piece sounds. Yes, there are levels of quality, but no one knows for sure how equipment will sound till it is heard in a room. Everything is not black and white. Even the reviews are limited. I find that I have less patience for audio people who act like they know it all. Its like a dealer that tells you that a brand that they do not carry is crap. Take all the information in and make your own choices. The Mcintosh MCD500 is very musical, has a very nice midrange,and is very pleasant to listen to in my system. That is just my opinion but I don't claim to know everything. I have owned the Ayon CD2, Ayon CD2S, and the Ayon CD5. I also had a Wadia Player some years ago, tried the Ayre C-5xeMP, and one of the current Meridian players. The Mcintosh holds its own with that group of players.