I bought and returned a Yamaha S1800 universal player (that apparently does pure DSD) because it was a joke. The regular CD layers sent from my Mac over optical to my Monarchy 18B beat it in every way--I guess I shouldn't be surprised.

Is there any SA-CD player under $1000 (used or new) that can do things with SA-CD (greater detail, more realism, bigger soundstage) that the aging Monarchy 18B can't do with CD? I'd really appreciate your recommendations.

I'm quite pleased with the front end of my system--Gilmore Lite and the 650s.

I like the way my tooleaudio modded 2900 sounds, but I've never heard the monarchy 18B. Where on the east coast are you, maybe I can get it to a meet you could make.

Hi Grawk,

I'm in Connecticut, though not really New York-area. I should have mentioned that multi-channel capabilities would be viewed favorably, though are not necessary.

The 2900 looks like a solidly built player. Was it totally transformed by the mods, or were you pleased with it as stock?

The mods make a pretty drastic difference, especially when paired with a good balanced amp.

OPPO BDP-83 Special Edition Blu-ray Disc Player

I've never heard it, but I'd put this on my list if i'm getting a ~$1000 player

You can get a Sony XA-5400ES for under $1,000 used and not much more than that new, if you scout around. It is an excellent player.

I can imagine seeing that the stock 2900 is single-ended only.

The XA-5400ES is getting mentioned a lot lately as being an excellent machine and excellent value. It will definitely be on a short list. Are there any recommended Marantz players?