Best CD player directly to Amp?

Well no one has heard the new one, maybe by the end of the week. I ordered a new one and am hoping it is at least as good as the old one; either way I don't think you can go wrong. Test drive one and you will understand what everyone else is saying.

I would go Audio Aero (old or new) for your associated equipment, but that is based upon my tastes...

ML 390S is also a strong choice, but probably not as well suited to your system (unless you like a LOT of detail).

Jacob

Muse Thalia Nine Gen.2 & Muse Erato, both are superb.

Good Luck,
Chris

I don't know about the "best", but Cary 306/200 with remote volume option does the job. Listed $5500, but you can get a lot less than $5000. To my ears, in my system, sounds great.

Where's all the Wadia fans? I am surprised that no one has mentioned any of the Wadia players. I have used the Wadia 860, and now have an 861. Both are excellent cd players, if you want to skip a preamp. Plus the Wadias can be adjusted, individually, to fit your system. I found them to be quite warm, with a great soundstage. And they are well within your price range.
There are also some really good modifications available, plus they are built like a tank. Check out Steve Huntley's Great Northern Sound Company website, www.greatnorthernsound.com, and check the Stereophile archives. They recently did an article on the 861.
I tried a Levinson 390s, after I sold my Wadia 860, but I found it to be a bit bright in my system, so I picked up an 861, and have been very happy.
You can find Wadias, here, occasionally, but they don't last long. Check them out further on the Wadia website.
Hope that helps.
Enjoy,
Mike