help a Die hard ANALOG guy choose a budget CDP

If you r interested in redbook cd playback only and want extremely high value (i.e. low cost, high quality) look toward the Emotiva ERC-3. It can be had new for under 500. Otherwise go Oppo 105

gdhal- I have a local buddy who had the ERC-3, and he  liked it very much. He simply went to a much more expensive SACD player from SIM Audio. I've always liked the Gamut amps, and I'm sure that would hold true with their CD Player. I'm just sticking with my price range on this one. I'm even stretching a bit, if I go with the 105D. I figure it's giving me a top-tier Blu-Ray plus excellent Resale value. phil9624- Thanks, and again I'm green when it comes to digital. I had an EAR Acute, and Audio Aero Capitole back in the day, but neither held a candle to analog. In this case, I have no expectation it will come close. I just want to enjoy some digital. Tonality above all else.

Check out ModWright Oppo if you want analog sound from a CD (SACD) player. Not in your price range but maybe nice to know about it anyway.
http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/modwright-oppo-bdp-105-with-truth-modifications/
I've got one and I ordered another. :)

I'll second (or third) the Emotiva.
I have switched to digital from a server these days, but still wanted a stand a lone player and bought an ERC-3, which I run through my DAC (a Hegel, that does indeed sound better than the on board circuitry on the player).