Sony CDP-XA7ES vs CEC TL-1 transport

Alex,
I n terms of musical sound quality, involvement and natural presentation I'd  rank in this order. Based on my listening encounters with them.
1. PS Audio PWT this is a superb sounding  transport, and if  bought used it is a terrific value.
2 CEC TL-1  very good sound but my friend's unit had the same CD reading issue as you mentioned.
3 Esoteric well built and universally praised for detailed sound character.
In my opinion less musically/emotionally engaging. More hifi sound character.
Charles,

Good advice from Bigkidz to try before you buy if possible as different ears and systems yield varying results.  The PS Audio PWT was better in overall musicality than the CECT TL-1 directly compared in a friend's system.  Different people will hear different things,  no surprise. The PWT is organic and very 3 dimensional in my system as well as my above mentioned friend. 
Charles, 

That is good news Alex and I hope you have many happy years with your CECT transport. 
Charles,