3 Brit players around 2,000 retail-which wins?

I agree with Subaruguru. A used Ikemi will be superior to the others in all respects. I've heard the other players and previously had an Ikemi. It's a great machine, and they're starting to show up at reasonable prices.

Did anyone compare these units with the Naim CD5 .. it's not much more.

Just curious - why does it have to be a "Brit" player? I would think that with $2000 you could go global with a lot of success.

There are quite a few players out there right now that could might be able to better the ones you listed for under 2K. The Meridian 508.24 comes to mind. Also, if you are lucky, you might be able to find a Sony SCD-1. Arcam makes a player priced right at 2K. I forget the model number, but from what I hear, it is fantastic.

I second S7horton on the Arcam. It is called the FMJ CD23T. It lists for $2199 but can be bought new at reasonable discounts (below $2K). It's a great CD player and an outstanding value.