Sony SCD-1 vs Marantz SA-1 choose 1

According to the latest review of the Marantz SA-1 in Ultimate Audio, based on double blind tests conducted by two reviewers with mega-buck associated components, they came to the conclusion that they sound absolutely IDENTICAL playing SACD's and pretty close as well playing regular CD's. The Marantz player does however load disks about twice as fast as the Sony.

I've not directly compared, but I preffer the look and feel of the Marantz slightly more than the Sony. Most comments state that CD play is slightly better with the Marantz. You make the choice whether the extra $$ is worth it to you. See earlier thread on "Marantz SA-1 Is it worth it?"

I would buy the SCD-1, and save $1300. The SCD-1 is more solidly built in my estimation. Contrary to what Tommart states, the consensus seems to indicate that the two players are virtually indistinguishable (in both modes) in the same setup.