The best CD Player for the money

For the money????? How much? I see a whole bunch of suggestions ranging from the couple 'O hundred range to the $5000+ . In my view you really can't beat a Music Hall CD-25 for a couple of hundred used and about $549- from Music direct on sale. Very good detail and presence competes handily with more expensive units diminished returns vs. the better units, but they are better. I have a slight conflict of interest here because I am probably going to sell mine at some point. Simply because, I have too many of the "ordinary means" types. I have an Audio Aero Prima wich I rolled the E88CC variant type tube output- the stock 6922 tube, Sovtek, doesn't do the piece any favors. The entry level AA is relatively expensive new however. Another one I have- is one my wife loves, but I niether like or mind the Jolida JD 100. If I could afford it, I would go with the AA Capitole but I don't think we are talking "for the money" with either of the AAs. In the $2-2.5K category you have to consider the Granite 657 its as good as $5000+ machines I hear the new everyday universal players are kicking some of our favorite "audiophile" brands around in shootouts nowadays. I may get one myself. For the TV of course!

Jazze 22,
I have the Sony DVP 9000ES and use as a back up.
My main system is:
Proceed PMDT Transport (Works Flawlessly)
Proceed AVP2 +6 Pre/Pro
Bryston 4BSST
Nautalis 802's
Transparent PowerBank XL
Transparent Reference Balanced MM interconnects
Transparent Ultra MM Speaker Cable

I read some of the posts and decided to due a comparison of the PMDT and Sony using Jeff Lorber - "The Definitive Collection"...I also listen to Jazz. The comparison was short lived. As one said, the Sony is lean and sterile...very little low end detail. The PMDT was transparent with great extension both ways. High quality components are worth the extra investment, although I to search for the nirvana that keeps me coming back for more. Like sand through your fingers.
Good Searching.

Try the Trl Sony 2000es. Very Musical and a great price!!

McIntosh MCD 205, the best you can do without buying the DAC and the transport seperately. Will make a CD sound as good as a record. Also holds 5 CDs.

I've got to agree with Alpha3, the TRL/Sony C2000ES is very good. VERY good. And less than $900 delivered!

I've heard their Marantz SA-14 mod and it is much better, but more money, too.

You won't be disappointed with the TRL C2000ES. I'm very happy with mine.