1) I have not heard the Ayre or RA.
$3,000 gives you a lot to work with,however.
The MKI is a great player and it is also a great preamp with handy inputs and my setup is similar to Unclejeff.As far as outputs I use the XLR to the amp and RCA to the subs. really usefull.
2) Not all MKII's have the Analogue Inputs like mine does not.It can be added,which may be my next upgrade.
3) The other players mentioned could be okay, but the full functioning preamp saves major $$ also in pc's,ic's,isolation etc.
The MKI is a beautiful sounding rig,has great looks,and takes you to the heart of the music and really that is what matters most.
$3,000 gives you a lot to work with,however.
The MKI is a great player and it is also a great preamp with handy inputs and my setup is similar to Unclejeff.As far as outputs I use the XLR to the amp and RCA to the subs. really usefull.
2) Not all MKII's have the Analogue Inputs like mine does not.It can be added,which may be my next upgrade.
3) The other players mentioned could be okay, but the full functioning preamp saves major $$ also in pc's,ic's,isolation etc.
The MKI is a beautiful sounding rig,has great looks,and takes you to the heart of the music and really that is what matters most.