Which is the best CD-Player up to $ 10k ?


I´m looking for a very good cd-player in the price range up to 10k to be paired with my new Ayon Audio Sunfire single ended tube integrated.

On my short list are Wadia 581SE, Audio Research CD-7, Ayre C-5xe, Esoteric X-01 Ltd. and Audio Aero Prestige SE

Main music preference is classical music, opera, and electronic music.

Speakers are Ayon Audio with ceramic drivers.

Cabelling is all Shunyata Research (but is planned to be exchanged with either Virtual Dynamics or Stealth Audio)

Any input regarding these units is highly appreciated. Thanks fellows !
frankpiet

Showing 7 responses by argyro

If you like a soft, pleasing sound, with more body that what was recorded go for the AMR. If you like to hear what is exactly written on the cd (WITHOUT BEING HARSH) go for the EMM LABS CDSA.
I suppose its obvious I'm just stating my own opinion. I havent perform a poll yet.:)

But I think the signal should leave the source as it is. The source should not alter the signal in any way.
IMHO

Regards,

Michael
Audiofeil of course that's true. But I think its two times wrong to start with an altered signal cause it is then multiplied.
Guys, thats why our hobby is so great
As Audiofeil said you can reach the desired results following many different approaches. It would be boring any other way.

Regards,

Michael
In my opinion the AMR does not lack resolution at all. I had the chance of auditioning it in my system. It is a very good player indeed. On the other hand it still sounded somewhat colored to my ears. I just dont get it why a source should have tubes...It doesn't make sense to me.

Regards,

Michael
I'll say it in a different way.

EMM LABS approach:

We believe in cd playback and we try to get the best out of it.

AMR approach:

We believe cd playback is flawed by design and we use tubes to get a better result.
Bottom line is that both the EMM and the AMR are great players. The rest is system and "ear" dependant!