Dear Bryan:
I too was in your shoes about a year ago wanting to upgrade my EAD DSP-7000 and T-1000. I went with the Wadia 850 directly feeding my CAT JL-2 stereo amp. I really liked the impressive bass, detail and soundstage it delivered, but just recently found a CAT Ultimate used and purchased it. With it in the chain the CAT linestage improved the dimensionality of the sound. Was able to keep the digital volume control basically maxed out. My system is still a work in progress. The Meridian 588 is also a great sounding CD player it was actually number two on my short list. Eventually I plan to send my 850 to Steve at GNS to have him modify it. I do not think you can go wrong with either player. If I win the lottery I will go with EMM Labs DAC2 and Transport!
Best regards, Joseph
I too was in your shoes about a year ago wanting to upgrade my EAD DSP-7000 and T-1000. I went with the Wadia 850 directly feeding my CAT JL-2 stereo amp. I really liked the impressive bass, detail and soundstage it delivered, but just recently found a CAT Ultimate used and purchased it. With it in the chain the CAT linestage improved the dimensionality of the sound. Was able to keep the digital volume control basically maxed out. My system is still a work in progress. The Meridian 588 is also a great sounding CD player it was actually number two on my short list. Eventually I plan to send my 850 to Steve at GNS to have him modify it. I do not think you can go wrong with either player. If I win the lottery I will go with EMM Labs DAC2 and Transport!
Best regards, Joseph