Yamaha CDS-1000 or Denon DCD-1600ne

 I stand corrected, but the practical point here is that both players are good, and I can’t account for how the differences between them will fit with the totality of the OPs system/room, let alone the OPs taste in music. From my viewpoint either machine will be satisfying, but I lean towards the Denon

 Ive had both these pieces in my home for short periods. They are both very solidly built and nice looking. I can't attest to the fact that either was substantially broken in, but I do recall that I preferred the Denon overall.

@mahler123 

From my viewpoint either machine will be satisfying, but I lean towards the Denon.

👍I understand your point completely. My point is, you and others have actually heard the SA CD players and render an opinion. Quite different from someone who has not and says they will sound identical. Where’s the credibility in that type of advice to “flip a coin “?

Charles

My taste of music is classic rock and blues that why I think the better fit will be Denon.

OP, I also listen to some classic rock on my Denon/Sonus Faber system, and agree that it's a good fit.  And $899 for the Denon is a very good deal -- less than I paid about 2 years ago, and notable in this inflationary economy.  Give the Denon sufficient time to break in, and I doubt you'll be disappointed.