I have a recent model Esoteric and love it - superb sound from both CDs and SACDs. Some years ago Esoteric had a reputation for thin analytical sound, but not the case now. These are high end players, and their prices reflect this. CDs and SACDs are still big in Japan, and that's where much of the product action is with Accuphase, Esoteric, Luxman, et al.
SACD/CD player update
i have invested on analog for a long time. From vinyl to Reel to Reel, VPI turn table to tube preamp. But sometime i looked at my shelf, there are still over hundreds of SACD and red book CD over there. also some Hi-def in my hard drive. I only have an Oppo 105 to play them. I wonder if it worth to invest on a better player. Thinking about Esoteric, but i never do A-B comparison and don't know how much i can gain. I'd like to hear some advice. Thank you.