The A5.5 tube hybrid CD player employs the best DAC's, filters and componentry to ensure technical performance which is equal to the most expensive available. Check up on their technical performance from the proper measurements made in magazines like Hi-Fi News or Stereophile and compare with the A5.5 CD. You won't see much difference because, in reality, there isn't much. The A5.5 CD is pretty well as good as it gets. The competition want you to be fooled by the outrageous prices they're charging. If it's expensive it must be good. The more expensive it is the better it must be. This is not true. The A5.5 CD offers superlative technical performance, great design and build quality and a subtle musical sonic performance. Great value for money.