I agree with you. Of all the devices that I have i.e. panasonic
mp3 cd player and acer n30 ppc for mp3s, nothing really beats the
sound of my Sony player. mp3 files are still compressed and the
clarity is just different. The quality of the sound is just
different. Clarity, bass and durability are still better off in a
dedicated CD player, you tend to hear certain keys and instruments
better. Even better when you play CDs on speakers via the optical
output. That's why I bought a Sony in the first place. Bought a
panasonic eventually cos its cheap but the sound is just
mediocre.
Haha, i had jus wanted to advertise my Sony discman n it seems like
this is soon becoming a discussion on brand names. 
