As a content owner of a Linn Genki I can assure you it is not the CD player. The problem likely lies primarily with the room (the forgotten component), or perhaps with the cables. Or, as the astute Mr. Eber notes, you may have the condition known as 'tinnitus audiophilia,' which is unfortunately almost always fatal (to your bank account!)
Source of Brightness
I have rigning ears from the brightness in my system. Linn Genki, Meas Baron, Magnepan MMM (1.6s ordered). What is the source and solution? Robert Harley in TAS on SACD said that the CD brigthness/harshness wasn't there on the SACD and in the past the best CD players balance brightness with detail. Are high end makers walking a tight rope due to an inferior souce format?