Esoteric X-03 vs. Ayre C-5xe


Both of these multi-format players are highly regarded in the press. While the Esoteric is slightly higher, they still are in that $5 - $8k span that I am looking at. I am primarily concerned with with which is considered better for standard RedBook CD as my SACD collection is limited.

Anyone actually heard both, preferably in the same system?
denf
I auditioned the Esoteric UX-1 and the Ayre C-5xe for 2 hours each in two different rooms using the same CDs. Of the two, I preferred the Ayre C-5xe; but I liked the APL 3910 much more and bought the APL instead.