If you are going used you won't be able to beat the Arcam FMJ 23. I've had the 23,and 33 and believe that the 23 gives up very little ground to the 33. Dynamics are great, soundstage is wide & deep and the vocals on it are amazing. I am currently using the Ayre CX-7 and would not swap back for either or the Arcam's, but I am also using an Ayre amp & pre-amp so I am probably getting some synergies, (balanced connection for one) that were not avaiable with the Arcam. I have not heard the Cary. At the end of the day I don't think one can make a "wrong" decision when choosing between players of this caliber, but given budget considerations you can get an awesome CD player and save $400 to $800 by going with the Arcam FMJ 23. I have not had a chance to hear any of the Cary line. Happy Hunting!
Owners of Cary 308,308T, Arcam FMJ 33 or Ayre CX-7
If anyone is interested, my current rig and description of it's contents can be seen in the "budget minded" of virtual systems under Yarvis' Rig. I am looking to hear from the owners of the aforementioned CD players. I am looking to upgrade from a modified Music Hall CD-25 (bought from Underwood HiFi) and would greatly appreciate owners comments good and bad concerning their expereinces. Budget will be an issue and I think I might want to go new on this purchase. (but that is always negotiable) What do you think of THESE players and how do they sound? I hope to hear from many of you!