I have not heard the Ayre CX-7, but I recently purchased an Arcam FMJ-23. I am very happy with it. I find it very detailed, with good frequency extension, and totally "non-fatigueing" to listen to. I heard the retail price recently went up to $2499. I was able to purchase mine new for 15% of the retail price of $2199. I think there may be better CD players out there, but at much higher cost. The Arcam is hard to beat for the $$$.
