I second the Audio Aero for a tube based player - much better than the Rega Planet, Unison Unico CDP, and Linn Genki.
The Audio Aero is warm to neutral, naturally detailed, without any strain. It get the texture and tone of instrument right, more than any CDP I had. Piano has the right weight and mechanics of the piano are realisticly reproduced.
At the current used prices for the Prima MKII CDP I doubt there is anything that can beat it. It easily is worth the asking price.
And a slightly different alternative: If you are interested in more affordable options, I would recommend looking into PC audio using a good qualty USB DAC like the Scott Nixon tube DAC. Alternatively a USB to SPDIF converter combined with a Mhdt Paradisea would be very affordable alternatives. I currently use a Wavelength Brick USB DAC aside from the Audio Aero Prima.
Good luck in your search!!
The Audio Aero is warm to neutral, naturally detailed, without any strain. It get the texture and tone of instrument right, more than any CDP I had. Piano has the right weight and mechanics of the piano are realisticly reproduced.
At the current used prices for the Prima MKII CDP I doubt there is anything that can beat it. It easily is worth the asking price.
And a slightly different alternative: If you are interested in more affordable options, I would recommend looking into PC audio using a good qualty USB DAC like the Scott Nixon tube DAC. Alternatively a USB to SPDIF converter combined with a Mhdt Paradisea would be very affordable alternatives. I currently use a Wavelength Brick USB DAC aside from the Audio Aero Prima.
Good luck in your search!!