Sony S7700, S7000, or ??? best low cost transport?

I agree with the previous posters. I owned 2 different 7700's. one stock and one specifically modified for transport duty by a well know modder. Neither of them approached the performance of a Theta Miles or Cary CD-308 when used with the same external DAC and digital cable. I wanted to create some extra shelf space for myself by replacing a dedicated CD player with a DVD player/CD transport and use a small external DAC. It did not work for me and I ended up purchasing and even better dedicated CD player and a very inexpensive DVD player. I'm very happy with both audio and video playback now, but still would like to find a quality DVD player that could do both.

Enjoy,

TIC

Audioengr,

My 7700 was mod'd by one of the mod'rs mentioned in your post. It did not have bybees as far as I know. I bought it used, verified the mods with the original mod'r, but I did not pop the top on the unit to look around. Also, that was more than 2-3 years ago. Maybe mods have improved since then.

I'm sure there are good DVD based units out there, I just haven't heard one yet!

I have since moved to a Quad 99 CDP and use it CD direct using its excellent built-in volume control. This unit sounds very good, has volume control and has inputs to allow use of its internal 24/192khz DAC with other digital sources like DVD players. For $1499 new (I bought mine used), I think it is an excellent value based on its redbook performance and its versitility. And, it's small and doesn't take up much shelf space.

Enjoy,

TIC