the first lector cd player (i don't recall its model number) should be considered rather than the lector 6.
i have auditioned many 24 bit players. the main component which makes them listenable is either a tube gain stage or tube output stage.
i must demur from the suggestion to purchase an ayon product.
i have heard several of their cd players and i find them lacking in body and a full fleshing out of upper harmonics.
if i were looking to purchase a cd player today, i would probably not want to buy any currently produced products.
no, i have not heard every player that is available for purchase. however, i tend to prefer older players with tubes in them. one runs the risk of having to replace the laser, which can be problematic.
what i would do is look into players from the 90's and early 200's.
i use a consonance sacd player which is no longer in production.
i also have an audio note cd2 (circa 1992). i like the original tempest and aria.
you should also consider a dac and transport-- for example, with an appropriate tube, the original minimax.
note as well, the "smoother" tubes include 12au7 and 6fq7. if you can get a brimar you won't be disappointed.
