Audio Aero Prima 24/192 Mk II cd player......

I have the Prima Mk2 and love it. It has a slightly forward tilt which gives the soundstage a natural-sounding depth with incredibly good layering and dynamics. I made some specific comparisons in my "system" page if you want more details but overall, it has high value and superb sound quality.

The Capitole is top loading which I don't care for. I prefer the Prima's conventional transport and its much lower price. Arthur

I agree with Grannyring that the Prima can be a little forward in some cases. Don't forget everything is relative!!

Is "forward" supposed to be bad? Some of you seem to take offense to what I find is a good trait. I guess that is further proof of relativity.

Doing A/B comparisons with the Consonance, CAL, Music Hall, Sony ES and Jolida CD players I have had in my system (the reference point), the Prima is a little more forward in the midrange than any of them. This impression could stem from the fact that the Prima has exemplary soundstage depth. However, it is more laid back than the Arcam and Cary CD players I have tried. It all depends on the comparison you are making so don't leave out this pertinent information when making a "generalization."

Stan sounds like Warren...too funny. Likes repel, sure enough.

Man Warren, I have never seen you foaming at the mouth before. :) All this subjective talk doesn't amount to a hill of beans anyway. We love our Primas and that's that so don't worry about the others.

Vertigo: As an owner of a Sony C333ES and Prima Mk2, I have to say I totally agree with all your comments on the comparison of your XA777ES vs. your Prima. In my world, I clearly prefer the Prima's style over the Sony's.

The Granite?? I tried the 657 head to head with my Prima 2 and the Granite was the clear loser. My audio buddies and I were surprised at how poor it was in soundstaging and dynamics. It sounded shut-in and weak and we all agreed. I can see why Mechans wants his Prima back!