CD upgrade opinions?

You could also look at an outboard D/A convertor.

A consult from the http://www.theupgradecompany about your current player or with the attended Esoteric is worthwhile.

My opinion is that if you wish for more a analog sounding cdp, (within your budget, or close to it), you could go with the following units:

For very good sound, (and the best bang for the buck):
A used Resolution Audio Opus 21 (they typically run around $2300 used). This is a incredible unit for the money, IMHO. It is detailed, and yet not very digital sounding;

or for slightly better sound:
The Audio Aero Captitole II (they typically run around $3,500 used), this unit sounds slightly more analog than the Opus 21. (My only objection to this unit is that it is a top loader, and I disliked using the puck. But that is my opinion. Sonically, it is very, very good);

Or for the best sound (supposedly, as I have not heard it myself, but based on opinions I value), a fully modded GNSC Opus 21, (used they go from around $3,500). However, it is a modded unit, and some people are leery of buying modded units. (FYI, Jeff Kalt @ Resolution Audio approves of the mods done by GNSC, and will actually do maintenance work on the modded unit. Jeff is a pretty cool guy, IMHO!)

My two cents worth anyway.

what you've described is a meridian 507...that said, the rega staurn plays way, way over its price. at this point in the redbook party, the 507 may be as good as most too.

Ayre CX-7e