In my experience, the Cary 308 was the better player. It just created a much bigger sound (wide open soundstage?)than either of the other players. It definitely had better bass. The MF sounded great too and seemed to offer more detail or at least it had me concentrating on the details more than the Cary. Listening to the same tracks on both players I discovered that the detail was there on the Cary, but I was simply more interested in the music than the details. I don't know if this makes much sense, but the MF was a more polite player than the Cary. The Arcam was just kind of sterile and not involving at all to my ears, but some people love it. I haven't yet purchased the Cary - no funds! - but it's almost certainly the one I'll end up with. Listen to each before you purchase to make sure you get what you want. Good luck! RB
Best CD: Cary 308, Musical Fidelity A3, Arcam CD92
All are similarly priced. Could save by going to Arcam Diva CD-72. Any thoughts or alternative suggestions in the $800 and under range?