Just some related thoughts. Sonics aside, because that's a personal matter, the Wadias are built like tanks. The 270SE has a better platter mechanism than the 270 if you can find one.
The pre-amp vs. direct is very system dependent. Both approaches work fine and can only be determined by your system AND what you're looking for.
If your system is already going in that direction I think the Wadia combo could be construed as a bit bright or edgy.
If your system doesn't lean toward brightness I think you'll be alright.
The "i" designation allows a separate word clock link between the 27 & 270 or 270SE through glass cable. I'm not sure the "x" designation is worth the extra "$" but that's just my opinion.
The pre-amp vs. direct is very system dependent. Both approaches work fine and can only be determined by your system AND what you're looking for.
If your system is already going in that direction I think the Wadia combo could be construed as a bit bright or edgy.
If your system doesn't lean toward brightness I think you'll be alright.
The "i" designation allows a separate word clock link between the 27 & 270 or 270SE through glass cable. I'm not sure the "x" designation is worth the extra "$" but that's just my opinion.