Realize this is an older thread and SACD in focus - but as a side note, I would look for a used Spectral SDR-4000 CD player, either the SV or SL. They are $20K new but I see them used in the $6K-$7K range. If you have a large CD collection, you will be glad you did - it makes standard Redbook CDs sound incredible. I heard one a few years back compared to a full four box dCS SACD stack - same disc, same amp, same speakers and cables - and that single box sounded better to everyone in the room, and I bought the demo unit that same day. To be fair, dCS has likely improved their technology since then, and I had never heard anything better than dCS sound quality up to that point. But given the vast price difference, the Spectral was/is a great value.