Request for insight/opinion

Thanks to everybody who responded. Duane, I have been told by a Pioneer rep that the Elite in Direct Mode does bi-pass A/D and D/A conversion. Which makes it easier to lean toward upgrading the my CDP. With Arcam, have you had any listening experience with the 73 model? I'm wondering if it is a reasonable choice or would it behoove me to save for the more advanced 33 or 36? Thanks again.

Are you using the digital or analog connection to play the CDs? I'm somewhat assuming the analog since that't the only way you could use the analog bypass.

Regardless of which way it is now, maybe try the other way to see if there is any change for the better.

I agree to go to the source. First, experiment with DIRECT mode and your current player. If direct mode sounds better now, then you're going to really be happy when you get an ARCAM or other very good player installed. If direct mode sounds worse, then the Pioneer receiver has better electronics for D/A A/D conversion than the DVD player, which would not surprise me. You will still benefit from a good player, but need to remember that a receiver such as yours is optimized for home theater. I would live with the trade-offs as long as home theater is an important part of your experience. If you want to get crazy about two-channel music, then a second system may be the answer, or a swing away from home theater.

TFkaudio & others, STEREO mode is quite excellent but DIRECT mode sure isn't. Your hunch was correct. I really don't regret the Elite purchase at all, it is a 10 fold improvement over the relic I had before(got it here on Audiogon,too - brand new/50% off suggested retail)but I do feel a pull towards intoxicating 2-channel music, I can't deny it. It probably would be crazy to go in that direction now but I suspect the day will come!