Nich

Also the TEAC UDHO1 if you can still find one. I've just bought the Meridian and think it's great but early days and I have to admit I did no comparative testing but went on reviews due to lack of local dealers.

No DACS are not necessary for good sound - as long as you stick to analogue replay! Still think LP can beat digital hands down but it is very much legacy technology, and it certainly can't be portable, streamed or downloaded!!