Sony SCD-777ES as a transport

That is exactly what I am doing. The Sony is a good transport. It is roughly the equivalent of what I was using which was a Theta Data II Universal. Haven't compared it to the best stuff, however. I found that a Digital Lens also helps for regular CD playback.

I think it is a mistake. I compared the Sony with a Levinson 37, a Meridian 508.24 and an old $300 Rotel. The Sony sounded equal to the Rotel and was not even close to the Meridian or Levinson. I think you should hold off. The prices on SACD players will be coming down shortly and other manufacturers will release their models. SACD is nice, but right now it is not worth it to sacrifice good sound on your CD collection just for a few SACD that are on the market. Also, Sony is the worst with customer service. It will not hold it's value at all.

I absolutely agree with Jtinn. I have tried the Sony as a transport and it is definitely not worth it. Also,why be restricted to the few titles available on SACD. Get a good transport instead and listen to any CD you like.

I'm currently using the sony 777es as a transport with my belcanto dac1. I think it sounds great and I have sacd capability.

Try the Pioneer 414 or 525 as a transport instead. I think you will hear an improvement.