I've had excellent results running the XA7ES direct. The Sony's remote adjusts volume remarkably well when run direct. The XA7ES is every bit as good as the 830, IMHO of course. Enjoy!
Running CD-Player Directly from Amp
I'm curious about the impressions of audiophiles regarding the use of a CD-Player's variable output for volume control while running it directly from a power amp. It seems like an ideal solution for a digital-only music listener, but doesn't the sound quality end up depending on the quality of the CDP's volume control?
Short of, say, a Wadia 850, are there any other CDP's (<$2,000) that give good results when used without a pre-amp?
Short of, say, a Wadia 850, are there any other CDP's (<$2,000) that give good results when used without a pre-amp?