Summary:
This is actually a review for the 330's predecessor the XE-300. However, as I understand it, the only significant differences between the two has to do with the changed face-plate and the provision of an optical digital output on the 330. The DAC remains the same.

The XE-300 was my bedroom system when I was a student in Oz, and even though I have moved on to better gear, I retain fond memories of it. For anyone who wants to add better CD sound to his mini system/boom-box setup - as a first step towards building a modest separates system - Sony's entry-level CDP-XE-300s range represent excellent value. I never had any problem playing moderately scratched CDs on the XE-300, nor did it ever develop mechanical problems during the 25+ months I used it. All in all, this budget Sony is a great buy.

Strengths:
Bright, clear sound. At its best with well-recorded mainstream CDs. Excellent CD transport mechanism.

Weaknesses:
Can sound thin and feeble with large-scale orchestral music.

Price Paid:  $135.00

Summary:
I've had this player for a couple of months now and I've been pretty satisfied. The only bad thing about the player is that when you listen at very low sound levels and sit (or whatever) near the player, you can actually hear the CD spinning inside the player, which is pretty annoying.
The Jog Dial is an easy way to search for a track instead of having number buttons from 0 to 9. They've done pretty good work at Sony I think. After all, it's not a perfect player so I won't give it the full 5 stars. Anyway it's worth the money.

Strengths:
Looks good, sounds good. Jog Dial.

Weaknesses:
Noise

Price Paid:  $120.00 from OnOff

Summary:
This is a nice CD-player, works just fine, sounds just fine, if you use the analog out you can fade the sound with the remote. Has pretty much everything you want in a player at this price. Nothing special thou, so if you just want a cd-player for you and your minidisc to listen to, then this a great deal.

Strengths:
Optical out, nice price

Weaknesses:
Can't be turned on/off with remote