Things that make you go, "Hmmmmm...."

I have an EVS modified Oppo BDP-105D, an Ayre C5xe-MP and even an ancient Oppo DV-983H. I targeted and searched for all 3 of these models and had to wait quite a while until I found used ones on the market that weren't almost the same cost as new. I saw the ones that I thought were priced too high sell time and again.

I think each of these are great examples of disc players that are worth the investment. Even the DV-983H is surprisingly good and both the Oppos play my digital downloads on USB drives. The BDP-105 can also stream and play hi-res digital files like FLAC and DSD, so even if the 'CD is dead' it will still be relevant. I've not had an opportunity to compare a modified Oppo to a stock model, so I can't say how much of an improvement Rick Schultz's efforts added; but I can say that it stands up very well with the much more costly Ayre, which has no USB ports. But the Ayre does do magic with redbooks. 

interesting thought. I have an Aesthetix Romulus eclipse. With tubes, I get a sound that’s pleasing to my ears, lush like vinyl with digital detail. In hindsight I might have gone with a good transport  e. g a vintage Esoteric and a separate DAC in order to upgrade as digital technology improves (assuming it does). So at least I’m not replacing a solid transport in addition to the DAC section. To me, the thing CDs bring is convenience over vinyl. If I’m listening to digital, its 50/50 CDs vs streaming tidal. 

Miller - I’ve personally like and have all forms of front ends. Tape, Vinyl, CD, and computer/DAC. All have there pluses, and minuses. To me nothing wrong with having a CD player.

I’ve got cases where any one of these formats might have the winning version of the song that’s the version most enjoyable. (to me) Halving said that, In general, I find myself being drawn into the music more, and having silly late night sessions when it’s the Vinyl and the Tape rig being used. I can really appreciate the digital side and the benefits it provides, particularly convenience. There is something very enjoyable and palpable from the Analog side.

For spinners, In one system I have an Oppo 95, and in two other systems I have Esoteric DV 60 DVD/CD/SACD player. The only plus for me with the Oppo is it plays Blue Rays and as nice as it is, it pales to the Esoteric from a SQ point of view. My experience is, buy a used player and although you will lose some value, it’s not much compared to new.  They are still serviced at the Head Office in California.

With all the folks dumping collections of CDs in droves, let them. You can buy a used 2000 piece CD collection for the price of a mid-range MC cartridge. 7 years ago I bought the first DV 60 for $2200. (+$5000 when new) Last year I added another DV 60 at $1200. While the 1st one did depreciate, compare that depreciation to a new Cartridge, or DAC, you can lose a lot more.

i really appreciate SACD, and particularly SHM-SACDs, the latter are extraordinarily musical and engaging. For example the Rolling Stones catalogue. Suppose you don’t have an early 1st press of Beggars Banquet. The Red book is poor at best, the SACD is nice, and the SHM-SACD is very enjoyable, even when compared to good vinyl samples.

All the best, no matter where you place your bet.

What does the OP expect in terms of return?  All gear depreciates over time.  CDPs are more prone to depreciation due to concerns about the laser.  How long does he expect to use the piece before selling it ?  Does he expect to own it for one year?  Would a 50% rate of return be reasonable?  He criticizes other posters in this thread for not answering his question, but unless I missed it I have not seen what his expectations are.
   IMO the resale value of CD is unrelated to sonic value.  To be fair to the OP, he has said that Sonics are not his only criterion.  Look at Oppo players.  I own two them myself, but the present prices that they fetch are ridiculous and unrelated to their quality.  The McIntosh and Esoteric recommendations are good ones for the OP.  People pay a premium for the Pride Of Ownership factor for those brands

His expectation seeking confirmation bias. A 10k player that sells for 600 will be by far the exception, not the rule.