Tell us more. 
Nap.
I have done quite some comparing over the past few months, the reviewed players include the BCD-1 (of course), the Marantz SA-7, the Classe CDP-102 (Canadian I think), the Musical Fidelity A-1008 CD and a few others. Most times side by side, some times stand-alone, all of the times with the same few CD's.
Janis Ian's Breaking Silence, this is an excellent recording when it comes to dynamics.
Depeche mode's Exciter, one of my all time favorite CD's, and one I know every little detail of, like I was with the band in the studio during their recording sessions.
David Bowie's Earthling, so many instruments together and still every one can be located, and finally
Madonna's Ray of Light, awesome recording.
I also had a test CD with me with 99 tracks, to actually check the number of tracks played. I do not have many CD's with more than 38 tracks, but on the few ones that do I also want to be able to hear the last songs... So the BCD kinda was a no deal from the start. Yes, it sounds excellent, but I think for that money better can be found. Also SACD was a strong wish (but not an absolute must), and I really do not understand why Bryston did not go that path.
The Marantz SA-7 had everything I was looking for: awesome detail, emotion, dynamics, musicality, SA and played everyting to track 99. Oh, and a $10,000 + pricetag.
After reviewing the SA-7 it kinda was a lost cause. Some were close, but never any cigar. Until I got the chance to sit down and listen to the Pearl next to the SA-7. Pre amp was an Audio Research LS7, poweramp 7B SST2, Loudspeakers Avalons (dunno which ones). There is a difference between the SA-7 and the Pearl, but this is not a matter of quality, it is a matter of taste and gut feeling. for me, the Pearl is the winner.
When I replaced my SA 7001 KI today with the Pearl the first comment my son made was "This sounds natural, like she is standing in the room with us". This was while listening to Janis Ian. He is 13.
Awesome compliment.
Awesome.
Get one while you still can, there are only a few left.
