I don't know how much use this info will be but..... I auditioned the Ayre in my system and was very impressed. It is one of the best players I have heard with redbook and went to a completely higher level with SACD. I heard the McCormack (not deluxe version) in a friends system. I thought it sounded a lot better than his Sony DVD player, but wasn't really floored by it's redbook sound. I did not hear it on SACD............ I guess in the end I am still really curious about the Ayre.
Chris
Chris