CD Transport with XLR Out

I can't say enough about the Jay's Audio CDT2-MK3 !  Terrific, well-built drive with a multitude of outputs and a precision clock.  I've had mine for over a year and it only sounds better !  It's the best transport I've had on my system.  Hard to find used and even used the price would probably be more than your $1000 range.  Everyone has to try and stick to their own budgetary constraints, however if you're looking for a good final DAC that won't break the bank, this is one you should certainly consider...Good Luck !

@jrfsc 

I second that Emotiva.😉 I've had the Gen2 for many years now. Solid performer for the $$$, and you can order direct from a company that offers great customer service.

curious what effect the Emotiva being not gapless has ? And yes,, looking to stay under $1000 ... I'm very familiar with the more expensive transports, where AES EBU is quite common, from my main system, but this is for a fun side project..thanks for all the responses...looks like the Shanling is shipping direct from China now, so hopefully here soon...

ARCAM S50 rules!

https://www.arcam.co.uk/product,hda,players,cds50.com

they hardly make good transports for that kind of money now ... look for a broken or broken ML 31 ... Theta basic