Can anyone recommend a smooth, rich CD player?

I recently listened to the TRL modified Sony DVP-NS900V in a system with VMPS speakers and the sound was fabulous, a great match. Also, this player was used in the VMPS room at CES as their primary source. Brian Cheney purchased a unit of his own and had it modified, that should say something. It will be a bit tough to locate a used unit (they are no longer manufactured) but will be worth it if you can. Call Brian Cheney at VMPS and ask him what he thinks of the player.

If you want warm, then the Prima will be a good match. I have a modified Electrocompaniet, which I love, but the Prima is definitely warm and rich.

My choices would be Meridian 508.24 or Audio Research CD2. Both will be what you're looking for but ARC will have better bass. Neither is bright or hyper-detailed. Both are very smooth. Ways better than your CD33 and will not sound bright on less than perfect recordings. My personal preference would be towards the ARC. But in any case these 2 players are the real deal.

AA Prima, Cary, CJ, Copland