Erinathon: Break-in times for the SACD and CD sections of the SCD 777ES are long. 200 hours minimally for each of the sections. I had a similar concern as yours before because I ignored to break-in the SACD section. I think the entire DSD transfer and playback technology preserves more musical information presented at the recording venue, i.e. a more accurate fascimile of the musical event. There will be an impact at playback if there were one recorded. Try Telarc/Dukas Sorcerer's apprentice. This a dual layer disk that allows you to compare 16/44.1 v. SACD. John
sony scd777es and sacd
Without getting to involved with my current equipment, its all high end and well matched. My recent purchase of the scd 777es has left me a bit bewildered about the excitement of sacd. I have had the player 2 weeks and have found the sound stage thin and restricted. Although the sound is more clear without the digital haze, it has lost much of the impact my system previously had. Is it break in time or did i get caught up in the hype once again?