New Release CD Players $1000 - $1500

Nothing new between the $500 Marantz and $5000 Hegel. Maybe next year...

I know you said cd player, but the Woo Audio cd transport is excellent for the money.  Pair it with a decent DAC and you're good to go.

just hooked up a Cambridge CXC and Simaudio 300 D Mkll  sounds great    thanks for all the suggestions

I don`t know your taste, but if you like "non digital sound" that is neutral, deep 3D soundstage and easy to listen, I suggest to opt on discrete R2R based DAC + plus some decent spinner or a decent digital transport.

I ordered Denafrips Ares from Vinshine Audio for use with my smart TV and I A/B compared it to my all time reference players. There is something in the discrete R2R. Overall in tonality reminds me a Accuphase DP-67, but with deeper soundstage. The DAC part is clearly better than newer DP-500 or 510, That are inferior to older DP-67.
I have not heard, but Metrum Dac`s may be also a worth to consider.

The Hegel is innovative in a back to the future way. They are focusing on doing one thing well. Interesting but at that price it would have to be really really great.