Best analog sounding cd player under 5K


Hi,

Im looking for a new or used one box player mainly for redbook. My budget could go up to 5K.
I know and have read a lot of threads about cd players but none deals with the analog sounding issue. Also, not everyone like his cd player to sound like his analog set up.
I can define analog, as neutral(good tonal balance), organic, natural, with a lot of low level information retrieval, inmediacy,with very good 3d image, not forward sounding and not analytical. I think the extension at both ends is not a must. Obviously, It cant be dark or too bright sounding.

I have in my short list so far, resolution opus, bluenote sttibert, apl denon 3910, audio aero capitole mkII, ayre Cx5.
For the reviews and comments on several forums it seems that the most organic and natural sounding is the Stibbert. How does it compare with the others? And also what other should be included in this list?
Thanks
Alan Brain
128x128alanbrain
I have always been very happy with the Meridian players. They have a sonic profile very similiar to what you are looking for in your post.
Just saw a photo of the Melody hi m10, WOW factor is very high. Drop dead gorgeous! Top load, but the best looking top load I've ever seen. Must own one of these...one day. Like my cayin 17, has dual/high quality power supply, one for analogue, one for digital. uses Mundorf Silver/Gold caps.
Mrtennis has something that i'd be very interested in. Thought I'd never consider another player upgrade from my currect Cayin 17/modded. Very nice souunding player/hefty at 45 lbs. But this Melody may be something I'd be very interested in. I'm in the process of considering a Melody 1688 preamp (from Steve aka Jian/US dealer) at the moment. I'll have to ask him about this Melody cdp. Mrtennis please give us a review.
I have not heard it but the EAR Acute CDP seems like it might be worth investigation. HP has written about it in TAS and Robert Levy gave it a great review in Positive Feedback (issue 27). Price is in upper range of your budget but as high end CDPs go seems reasonable.
Hi
Thanks for all the info.
That melody cd player sounds interesting. Where can I find a picture?
or What is the website adress? I cant find it.
Thanks
Alan Brain