I don't think there is a CD player out there, my poor Meridian included, that can truly beat the new SACD format when you factor in cost. I have both the 508.24 and the new Sony DVP-S9000ES. In SACD mode it really gives the Meridian a roughing up--and at half the price. For CDs the 9000ES falls short. This is where the SCD777 would probably shine. Are you going to listen to SACDs or CDs mainly?