Marantz SACD30N

To clarify and correct the record, the Marantz 30N is $2499, not $3999, (USD) vs the Technics at $2999. So yes you get XLR outputs with the Technics and YOU PAY MORE for it. I agree it's unfortunate the Marantz doesn't have XLR jacks, but don't falsify its pricing. It was designed for a specific price point, as was the Technics. And the higher cost will inevitably give you more features.

No, tweak1, I’m not overreacting or being being defensive. I just don’t like misinformation being flung about. Please, go ahead and make your point, but do it using facts not falsehoods.

Thank you for the link, gryphongryph. That was most informative and actually makes a lot of sense. It is especially enlightening to learn how some manufacturers actually "fudge" it by offering an XLR jack but not the balanced circuitry to support it. (Rotel comes to mind; not to pick on them, they are not alone. I often wondered how they could offer XLR connections on inexpensive products.) Thus it is merely a convenience with no sonic benefit, and actually may be detrimental overall. Stereophile is good at pointing this out in their reviews when they see it implemented.