Sony SCD-777es is a good deal if you can find one -- they go for 1500-1800 on Audiogon, but disappear within minutes (literally). I got mine for only 1450 because it has a tiny ding on the faceplate, which doesn't matter to me at all. I checked it out in my system -- good timing, detail, and imaging, but somewhat mechanical and flat sounding. I've sent it to Richard Kern for mods -- the main modification is the clock upgrade, which I've already heard in my SCD-775 with fantastic results in terms of low-level resolution, timbre, and natural sound. The clock upgrade is only $300 or so (plus shipping to Oregon and back). I'm also getting the transport and audio board electronics upgrades. If you like, I'll give you a report. This may be your least expensive option for a very good CDP plus the bonus of SACD capability. The jump from CD to SACD is not subtle -- my wife and kids needed no prompting to notice and appreciate it.
