A good CD player within a good setup( read same sort of cost that you would consider spending on a Linn with decent cartridge/arm/amp/etc) will give it a very close run. Personally I prefer the CD setup as you don't need to be buying first pressings etc. In a blind test I think you would tend to prefer the CD although there is the 'gut feeling' that using vinyl gives. However we are talking silly amounts of money and at that level the human ear is probably the weakest link in the chain. I used to sell quality kit and it really is a case of listening and deciding if you can hear a difference and if that difference is worth the cost to upgrade. As with most things as you move up the chain it is an ever decreasing return for your investment.
PS If you are interested I have a set of Quad Electrostatics for sale
