That early VC24 chip set has it admirers. Some say it makes no difference compared with later, more integrated Sony chipsets, just fewer chips.
One useful feature on some Sony players is a choice of filter cutoffs. One can have a sharp low pass filter or a longer, smoother one. Your system response might make this an important audible change.
I did a big comparison of Sonys vs. an Oppo and found the Oppo a bit more forward and a tad rougher. The Sonys have a smoother texture but the delta is small.
One useful feature on some Sony players is a choice of filter cutoffs. One can have a sharp low pass filter or a longer, smoother one. Your system response might make this an important audible change.
I did a big comparison of Sonys vs. an Oppo and found the Oppo a bit more forward and a tad rougher. The Sonys have a smoother texture but the delta is small.