I'll try to take some pics again, they don't seem to turn out too well. I have no problem at all with the bass on the ET's, they go low enough and there's no obvious integration issues with the ribbons. I feel no need to add a sub, but please bear in mind I'm no bass freak either. The ET speakers are way too good for their price tag. I am thinking about trying out the Gallo Ref 3 speaker, only problem is the many months delivery.
I like the Shanling, it sounds better with the WE tubes and the upsampling does make an audible difference. The HDCD sounds quite good, gets close to XRCD's. No, the T100 is no match for my analog rig but then again, no digital front end can compete. I think the Shanling offers great features and stunning looks for a modest price.
Looks good on paper-how about some pics? Seems to be a great mix of notable components. I also have the TU-517 which I really like. Do you find any shortcomings in the ET VIIIa bass? How do you like the Shanling CDP? Any faults?