better ears than budget, so i would like to think

I think you'd be happy with a Linn Majik. Available on this site for around $500 and very nice.

I would look for a YBA Integré DT, a Creek 5350, a SimAudio I-5 or perhaps a Bryston BP-60. There is also a chance you would be seduced by a tube integrated in that range, if you got the chance to hear one with your speakers. The Cayin/HIT Audio push-pull EL34 model is very nice indeed.

Once you get one of these in your system, you will be in a great big hurry to change your CD player.

Best of luck!

If you can stretch that budget just a bit, consider a Naim Nait integrated, if you have a chance to audition one. For my own selection process, it proved itself a giant killer.

A used Naim Nait is within his budget. Naim Nait or Creek 5350SE.

That would be my short-list.

Thank you all for you consideration and time!! This helps!!

Nick