What is the story with Rega Appolo?

I am very satisfied with the Rega Apollo and this is after a year and a half of ownership. I have used the Apollo in the same system with a SONY SCD555ES sacd player (an A rated Stereophile player) and have AB'd the two players on occasion and the Apollo's sound was preferable with redbook playback. I am not quite sure what peoples' expectations are with the Apollo or what/ if they are actually comparing it to in a side by side shoot-out. What other UK made player is better at the $1100 mark? Note: I own quite a bit of Chinese made electronics, but I also realize that comparing prices from the two is like comparing apples and oranges. A fairer comparison might be what $600 Chinese made cd player is better than the Apollo?

Regards, Rich

Used to own Apollo, no complaints. I wished that I kept it since I am building my second or more like 3th system and could use CDP with Rega's forgiving sound and musicality. I am not trying to defend it ......I couldn't care less what others reasons are but IMO it is a fine Mid-class budget player that is better then some ....even more expensive players. I have hear that some have had some issues with their Regas......my was fine , so I can't really relate to those stories....and my Apollo was one of the original series that went to the dealers in the first few months since the release date.

Guys thank you for input! I used to buy stuff from Audiogone when I lived in US. If you get things at the right price the most what you can lose is shipping fees. Now I live in Canada and every item I buy on Audiagone costs me extra 20% thanks to the generosity of the government. Now I have to think a lot before I buy anything. I did not have chance to listen to Apollo yet. I did read all professional reviews but I always trust more an opinion of the people who are using the product since unlike “professionals” they don’t live of advertisement of the companies whose products they review. I will certainly consider Azur 840 and Jas Musik and listen to Apollo

Alex:

If GST/VAT is an issue, consider the Music Hall 25.2 CD player. A $600 player that beats most players in the sub $1000 category.

Regards, Rich

Rich:
You mentioned in the review of your system that Apollo is easy on ears. More relaxed and softer top is what I’m looking for in my upgrade. How does Music Hal compare with Apollo?
Thanks.
Alex