I have never been able to find the difference between a cheap CD player and a more expensive CD player. The most expensive CD player I have ever owned is a Pioneer CLD-97 though even that has some issues in that it doens't play blu-spec CDs very well (no older CD player does. they seem to only play well on blu-ray players). A good CD player will have good controls, heavy, and stable. From what several have told me, one of the best CD players ever made was Onkyo's DX-G10 CD player from 1988. That CD player was built like a tank using a heavy reinforced graphite-steel chassis that's heavier and more stable then most $20,000 CD players. It used reliable parts that allowed it to function well for years and played back flawlessly. Several people have told me they never listened to a better CD player then the DX-G10 (or C-2001 in Japan).
What Sonically is the Difference between a $1,500 CD Player and a $10K-$25K One?
I realize opinions may vary, but if I could give an example of two CD players perhaps someone can give me their thoughts on the cost benefits of either one? What would be the difference in your opinion between say a Cambridge Audio Azur 851C CD Player and the Gryphon Scorpio S CD Player? And are the difference truly audible or more technical and rather indiscernible through human hearing?
In general, what makes a CD player (other than build components) 10x more costly than a decently built one other than features?
In general, what makes a CD player (other than build components) 10x more costly than a decently built one other than features?