you will need to audition the nad, Oppo & Cambridge - all are xlnt
Luckily, all can be bought with a return privilege. Try to set up a double blind test, and start making copies of CD tracks for testing while you wait for them to ship.
I know the OP asked for only a CDP but just as another option, I think a separate CD/SACD transport and a DAC can provide an additional degree of flexibility worth considering. And it should be relatively easy to stay within the $1500 budget and get two great sounding components.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.