I'm starting to think of it this way. Digital is better, it's just the implementation limits it. It seems to me that digital playback is so revealing that any weak links in the chain can cause the audio quality be not at it's best. That chain includes everything from the mechanical systems to the electrical components as well. An example is the change in audio sound & characteristics I experienced when I lopped off the stock nickel plated blade, molded OEM plug on my CD player and installed one with polished brass blades. The best mod men out there pay special attention to the things that affect the sound and improve them. Taking us closer to the true potential that digital playback has to offer.Well, that's just my two cents worth...