The CD55 represents a slight improvement over the CD50 (which is a great player). It is somewhat more refined and smoother overall. While the midrange on both is very similar, the CD55 has the edge in the high end. The CD55 has a little less bass than the CD50, but it is extremely tight and detailed. Both present a wide and deep soundstage and are very resolving without sounding analytical. The CD50 caused me to sell my separates a while ago, the CD55 is even better. You won't be disappointed in the CD55 (be advised that it does take a while to breakin).
