Sony SCD-C555ES good for redbook?

update: I continued to be impressed by the Sony SCD-C555ES. However, I returned it before my 30 day trial was up because it had a slight rumble/vibration/buzz in the transport while playing SACDs. It didn't always vibrate but, when it did, it was audible from my listening position.

The other reason I returned it was because the warranty card in this player was from Sony Canada and it was only for 3 years. Also, it said that you had to return it to Canada for service. Sony ES products are supposed to have a 5 year warranty in America. This makes me wonder if all of Tweeter's Sony equipment is from "Sony Canada."

Bufus - sorry to hear about the rumble. As for the warranty card being Canadian you could arrange service in the US - it doesn't have to travel to Canada for service. The ES warranty period in Canada is 3 years and in the US its 5 years (we Canucks again take it up the old wazoo once again). When I received my 333ES from Oade bros. it had both the US 5 yr card and the Canadian 3 yr card. I remitted the 3 yr card to Sony Canada.

It is very possible that the unit you auditioned was originally from Canada as due to the prohibitively high list prices here in Canada for SACD players I wouldn't doubt that Sony Canada has shipped units south of the border to reduce stock levels.

Bufus, Thanks for the update. Are you going to get another 555es? Or do you think it was a design flaw? Thanks. Tony

Now that I'm back to the Rega Planet, I can tell that the Sony had a more open soundstage, more musical presentation. The only other one they had was a display model. I may get another one from someone else. I emailed the ebay seller who had some for $549. I asked if Sony would honor the warranty if I purchased one from them. I never got a response. I don't think that was a good sign. I know some manufacturers are starting to refuse to honor warranties if you buy from unauthorized e-commerce dealers. To me, two wrongs don't make a right. They should honor the warranty if you buy the player new. It is their job to keep their stock directed to authorized dealers. After all, Sony is making the same money wether I buy it from a high end shop for full retail or on the internet for $549.

I agree with you Bufus, Sony should honor the warrenty no matter what. It's up to Sony to ensure their "dealers" honor the company's warrenty when the product is sold "as new". I hope everything works out for you. The feedback you lent regarding the comparison to the Rega is much appreciated. Tony.