sony scd-1 versus 9000es

I would just have the 4.5 mod done to your scd-1. I have a scd-1 with the same vsei upgrade that yours has. I plan on sending mine in for the 4.5 upgrade. The 9000 is pretty flimsy compared to the scd-1. No way would I give up my scd-1 for a 9000. I have spoke to Allan Wright, Warren Gregorie, and Bill Thalmann about this and they all say that the 4.5 upgrade will provide a major improvement in sound. The 4.5 mod is about $450 to $500 as opposed to MAJOR bucks for a dac6.

What is the 4.5 upgrade?Everyone that I have spoken to likes the modded 9000 better than the scd-1.I agree that the build quality on the scd is Porsche-like.I had the Linn karik previously-and the stock scd was much flatter sounding and nasal compared to the Linn.The stage 2 modded was much better than the Linn.Slowhand-can you give me any of the sonic characteristics of the upgrade?

I have not heard the 4.5 upgrade. In speaking with Allen Wright, he says that the scd-1 with the 4.5upgrade gives the player much more resolution. More air and space between the instruments, along with more depth. I have a friend that has the dac6/emm setup. Allan told me that I should compare my scd-1 with his setup when I have the 4.5 upgrade done. He is not saying that the scd-1 will sound better, but he feels it would come pretty close. For $400 to $500 investment, that sounds pretty good to me. Allen posts on Audio Asylum. If you go onto the sacd board, you can ask him about it.

Thanx for the feedback, slowhand!!!