Here's my experience: I had a mid-fi system (B&W DM12s, NAD receiver, Magnavox CDP, Technics 'table) for many years and have since upgraded. First, I replaced the NAD with an Ayre integrated. A very nice improvement, made me want to sit and listen rather than simply have background music. I can't quantify the improvement, let's just call it it "X". I next got Thiel 1.6s and the improvement was roughly similar to the amp upgrade (again, X). Next up was the CDP and I opted for the Ayre CX-7 to match my amp. This time, the improvement was a bit less than X, maybe 75% of X. Well worth it even if not quite as dramatic as with the amp and speakers. I've often been curious how my perception might have been different had I upgraded in reverse order . . . So, my suggestion is to explore better CDPs.
What is the affect of cd player?
How much does the CD player affewct the o ver all sound quality of a system. I now have a Cambridge AZUR 840c and like it very well. But wsas thinking of upgrading if it would give me an even better sound. I wonder how much the cd player figures into the ovcr all picture? Thought maybe some of you who have been there and done that could share there experience Jack