Best sounding CD player for 6,000.

I have not heard all of the aforementioned players but the best i've heard is the Electrocompanient EMC-1. The Sony SCD-1 with the ModWright "Absolute Truth" modifications is worth checking out too. With one of Modwright's "Direct Mod" options you can plug the SCD-1 directly into your amp. www.modwright.com

Gotta agree with Blackchevy: my Electrocompaniet EMC-1 WITH Mk II DAC floats my boat REALLY well.

Before buying the Electrocompaniet EMC-1 MKII, I auditioned in my system the Linn Ikemi, Burmester CD Player 992, and the Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 3D CD Player. Although I could have lived happily with any of the above, particularly the Musical Fidelity, I most liked the Electrocompaniet, as it sounded more dynamic, warmer, and less like a digital component than the others . I highly recommend Virtual Dynamics cables with this player as well.

Another vote for EMC-1 mk 2.

The Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 3D CD player if you can still find one (only 500 made!) is still the best. Sounds pretty near to SACD.