For what it's worth, I've done A/B testing with my 555 changer via toggling the layers with the remote (mine doesn't require a shut down, only stopping the disc and hitting a button on the remote) and, at least on my system, I can hear a difference in the dynamic range and a more tube-like...

I'd recommend getting one that improves your redbook playback and offers SACD as a bonus. There are a number of the Sony's (the 222 or the 555 ES changers; I own the 555ES and am very pleased with both SACD and redbook) that you can find used which cost about the same as their non-SACD...

Most people seem to think/guess that's the case. I thought I'd also read that the Audiophile has some better parts (rooms for bigger capaciters, etc), but don't quote me on it. I've got the USB Audiophile and am very pleased with using it's digital out to my Modwright P-3A DAC. I'm still trying...

I use the same setup. If you're got all the DSP options of your player turned off and are using ASIO or kernel streaming to route the bits directly to the Audiophile, then it should be bit perfect. Without installing or selecting ASIO or kernel streaming output (via plugins or selecting it if...

Be patient and search for pair of Sound Dynamics 300ti's ($300-$450 used) to pop up. Amazing speakers for the money. Highly musical with excellent midrange, detailed highs, and good bass (though can be a little wooly with low, driving bass). I listen to lots of types of music and everything...

I own a stock C555ES and really like it. Amazing on SACD and quite good on redbook. Relative to what I've directly compared it to in my system, on redbook I like the 555ES more than a stock MSB Link II and, on SACD, the C555ES sounds better to me than the modwright level II Perp Tech P-3a. This...

The monolithic PS can be found for $200 or less used. Most say get the upgraded PS before paying to have the Link modded. I got my PS at the same time my Link was modded, so I'm not sure which made the most difference. However, the combination of the PS and the modwright mod's does make a huge...

Most people say that all the Links sound the same, but the III is more easily upgradeable via socketed modules. I like the sound of it. A big improvement for most mass marketed cd players. Lots of reviews out there. Getting it upgraded by modwright or DIY...

Here's a few that always impress: DiMeola et al.--Friday Night in San Francisco. SACD Alison Krauss and U.S.--live. SACD Cowboy Junkies--trinity sessions. CD Stan Getz--pure getz. SACD Emmylous Harris--quarter moon in a ten cent town. CD

The MSB Link (I, II, or III) is a big step up from the DAC in most mass-marketed cdp's. Stock they range from $125 to $175 for the I's and II's. The Links also allow lots of upgrade options for later. I started off with a stock Link II for my mega-changers and eventually moved up to a Modwright...

For about $200 total you could pick up one of the toshibas as a transport and a used MSB Link DAC I or II on audiogon and have an impressive source for the money. Lots of upgrades available for the MSB down the road, as well.

Yep, the cd layer of the hybrid is read just like a normal cd. You're right that it does depend on what type of music you like, though and that it will get cheaper. I like just about everything, so SACD has got me deeper into genres I didn't have that much of yet. Lots of classical and jazz...

Those are valid concerns, but I don't think you pay that much more for SACD capability, i.e., from what I've read (I haven't done a direct comparison) 555ES is on par with a used $500 redbook player. Maybe an extra $100. Also, most new SACD releases are hybrids so you can rip them and take...

I went the SACD route (Sony SCD-C555ES) and have been very pleased. SACD playback is amazing and redbook is impressive as well. There are a few SACD players that are quite good at redbook (the 555ES, the 333ES, and the Philips 963A are supposed to be good). As someone suggested you could get...

I've got the MSB Link II (basically the same as the III except more difficult to upgrade) and it is a significant improvement over the DAC's in cheap cd players. Yes, you could use a cheap sony (I use it with my sony mega-changers) and get good sound. If you don't need a changer there's lots...