ive actually had both players & i think the cd2 might have a stronger midrange,but the sony might have a better top end,so it will depend on what your system needs more.also,don't overlook the audio research cd 1 (get one of the last ones made).the cd 1 was one of the best sounding cd players in my system(and has a remote volume control)
Sony XA777es vs Audio Research CD-2 redbook?
Just curious if there have been any comparisons between these two for redbook playback. I've always liked the performance of the CD-2.