Eusmani:
Welcome to Audiogon - I am relatively new here myself. But as one who came into this hobby with exactly the same assumptions as you about there being relatively small differences in digital playback, and placing the highest priority on speakers, let me say loudly and clearly: I WAS WRONG!!! I didn't want to believe it, but the differences in digital sources are profound and more greatly affect how involving the music will be in your hi-fi than any other component. Far, far more than speakers.
But do NOT take my word for it. Go to a good audio shop and throw down the gauntlet. Tell them what you believe and have them try to prove you wrong by doing A/B comparisons with the equipment in their shop. Any good shop will be happy to do this. For example, start with something like an NAD player, then move up the Arcam line until you reach the FMJ CD 33, and then beyond if you like (the Linn Ikemi, for instance, though there are numerous other possibilities). I think you will be very surprised, and your spending priorities will change abruptly.
Welcome to Audiogon - I am relatively new here myself. But as one who came into this hobby with exactly the same assumptions as you about there being relatively small differences in digital playback, and placing the highest priority on speakers, let me say loudly and clearly: I WAS WRONG!!! I didn't want to believe it, but the differences in digital sources are profound and more greatly affect how involving the music will be in your hi-fi than any other component. Far, far more than speakers.
But do NOT take my word for it. Go to a good audio shop and throw down the gauntlet. Tell them what you believe and have them try to prove you wrong by doing A/B comparisons with the equipment in their shop. Any good shop will be happy to do this. For example, start with something like an NAD player, then move up the Arcam line until you reach the FMJ CD 33, and then beyond if you like (the Linn Ikemi, for instance, though there are numerous other possibilities). I think you will be very surprised, and your spending priorities will change abruptly.