Suggestions for a CDP that's

Zd542 you are absolutely correct, the VRE-1b is more than a very nice line stage, it actually beat out my Kondo M1000 line stage which retailed at $95,000!
I've decided to get the new AMR CD-777SE which is due out in a few weeks time. Not a true balanced design but not a real issue.

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It looks like you have a very nice line stage. There's a good chance that you may like the player better going through it. Not to mention the switching of cables you will have to do moving between the 2 sources.

Resolution Audio Cantata, it is what I use and I have Atma-Sphere amps as well.

Dealer Disclaimer for both products.

zd542 the rest of my system is as follows:

AZ Crescendo speakers
Atmasphere Novacron LE OTL amps
NVO SPA-II/2 (22 tubes) phono unit
Brinkmann Bardo TT with their 10.5 arm and EMT cartridge
VRE-1b pre-amp
Mixture of cables from PAD, Pranawire and Nanotec

(Dealer disclaimer)

What is the rest of your system?

Thanks Mattmiller but I've heard McIntosh and don't care for their sound.

McIntosh makes 3 SACD/CD players with volume and balanced outs. MCD201,301,500. the 500 is the best one it uses the Saberdac chipset. The 301 has a good transport but dosent sound near as good as the MCD500.

OP-
look into Accuphase.

Ancient Audio.

Wadia. That's what I use they sound great with, and without a preamp.

Take a look at the EAR Acute 3.

http://ear-usa.com/ear_sources.htm