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Which is the best CD-Player up to $ 10k ?

I´m looking for a very good cd-player in the price range up to 10k to be paired with my new Ayon Audio Sunfire single ended tube integrated.

On my short list are Wadia 581SE, Audio Research CD-7, Ayre C-5xe, Esoteric X-01 Ltd. and Audio Aero Prestige SE

Main music preference is classical music, opera, and electronic music.

Speakers are Ayon Audio with ceramic drivers.

Cabelling is all Shunyata Research (but is planned to be exchanged with either Virtual Dynamics or Stealth Audio)

Any input regarding these units is highly appreciated. Thanks fellows !
frankpiet
frankpiet OP
307 posts
 
Stringreen: I´ve had the C-5xe - the only downside next to the flimsy plastic tray is that Ayre gear sound best through balanced outputs.
mtdking
157 posts
 
I have had them all and the Ayre is the best believe it or not. I thought the Esoteric was the worst. Sold them all for my Modwright Transporter which is better then them all. The audio Aero was to soft for me. The Wadia is very close to the Ayre but it can be a little to much overtime. Ayre is just right.
audiofankj
373 posts
 
Running my AMR CD-77 through unbalanced outs as well here.
radioheadokplayer
181 posts
 
I have had the top of the line emmlabs cdsd se, the reference marantz, the reference cary, and others.

I just received the playback designs cd/sacd player and it easily is the best of the bunch. The presentation is natural and relaxed yet the bass is deep and tight, the vocals are transparent. I am floored and it has not even broken in yet!

there are plenty of really good cd players out there but from what I have heard, this is the best by a country mile!
frankpiet OP
307 posts
 
Tried to contact the guys from playback designs but didn´t get any response. I wanted to know where in Germany you can buy these players. In the meantime I´v bought the Nagra and I´m VERY satisfied with the results.
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