Sony XA-5400es player...Giant Killer or just Ok?

i don't know if this helps.

i consulted dan wright and asked about the sony with the tube mod compared to the oppo 83se with the same mod.

he recommended the oppo with the tube mod.

he suggested the sound of the sony was a bit sharper (in the treble).

of course the right tube may mitigate the treble problem.

what about marantz or conrad johnson universal player.

i realize the thread is about sony. you might consider other brands as well.

Conrad Johnson universal player?

I have had mine for a couple of years with no trouble. It is an excellent player and I highly recommend it
Alan

Very Good player stock and you can always have it modded by Modwright.

Chuck

So, why did Sony pull the unit from the market Rumor is that it had reliability issues. Oppo 95 would be a better choice, or a Sony 595 at $60 if you really are into sacd's.