Best Circa 90's CDP

Best was the Audio Meca Mephisto II.  Next the Metronome T1A & AL2 CD Transport & Power Supply.  Another great choice is the Marantz CD-94.  These easily sound better anything suggested above.

@bigkidz Better than the Linn CD12?  I respect your opinions/experience but color me a little skeptical on that one.

Second,

Pioneer PD 65. Add Accuphase DP-65/65v (1997) and Sony ES 7-Series.

Happy Listening!

I have an ageing Exemplar SACD player ( a John Tucker modified Denon DVD3910 ). Yes I have had to replace the laser unit but no great deal and I would back the sound quality against most recent players.  

Continuing with Pioneer, the Elite PD93 or 

PD95. Both bigger brothers, much, to the PD65. I own 

93. Pop the bonnet to be amazed at the build quality.

Separate outboard mounted digital and analog

transformers. A masterpiece in its day, still sounds 

terrific and operates perfectly.

@soix different presentation.  The Audiomeca is so musical you simply fall in love with the music and things just float in the air so it comes down to your preference.

Can't go wrong with many of the suggestions here.  Just find a unit where you can replace the laser if not once they go you are up the creek without a paddle!

https://positive-feedback.com/Issue15/audiomeca.htm