Help Best 5-disc cd-changer...........

There are only a few choice if you want a 5-disc changer - Yamaha CDC-697, the above-mentioned Sony 595 and 2000ES, Rotel 1055, Denon 390/290 and Marantz (don't remember the number). Based on what I've read, it seems that Yamaha is the most reliable of them all.

May I suggest an older Sony 5 disc changer like my C222 or a C555? Then have it modded by SACDmods ( check out his website ) or other reputable modder. Those old Sonys are built like tanks, thoroughly reliable and $200 to $400 on Audiogon or Ebay. Add $450 or a bit more for the upgrade and you have a great CDP for under a grand. My total cost for the cdp, mods, including shipping was about $700. I've been using mine for three years, 4 to 6 hour a night, every night with no problems. Great detail and imaging. I have no connection with SACDmods.

The important point is to get a reliable changer. Add the DAC of choice. I have PS audios and have been very happy with the smooth output. Doesn't have the hard top end edge like the Benchmark I tried.
Like my Sony Changers but the Wadia 170 is also quite good and comes with that fun factor!
If you get a separate Dac you won't have the expense of replacing a complete CD player, just a transport of choice.
A music server today, the jukebox of old. Seems like we're moving full circle.

Couldn't believe my ears after picking up an Onkyo DX-C390 for the office (from Amazon, brand new for around $150 with free shipping) - This is a 6-CD changer with a 192/24 DAC and Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry just as found in Onkyo's much more expensive "high end" DX-7555 player. This player really does sound special. (It seems there have been complaints by several owners regarding the unit's reliability, but mine has been used every day for almost a year with zero issues.) -gg

In my home office I still use my 2000 purchased Technics SL-PD6 which was about $150 back then. I use it with a Paradisea+ DAC. I wouldn't call it the best, but it gets the job done.