Time For a CD Player Upgrade

To answer a few questions, I am running my Rega Saturn stock; no external DAC, no special laser mats or fuses. I am open to an external DAC and other add-ons if they yield a substantial improvement.  I'm using JPS cables.

Stretch it a bit more for the REGA ISIS VALVE cdp/dac pre-owned if you elect to  go all in one

I’d use the Rega as a transport and get a Denafrips Hermes DDC and run i2S from it into a Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC — both would only set you back $3200 and be a big improvement in the direction you’re looking to go.  Just one idea, and best of luck. 

I love my Meridians. They’ve depreciated a lot (fell out of vouge especially since the MQA thing), and you can get an 808v5 or v6 in you budget. They’re definitely not bright, and can hang with a good vinyl setup. As an added bonus they have digital inputs and can be used as a DAC. Their preamp functionality is pretty good, too.

@jayctoy Right on. I have had my Marantz SA.-KI Ruby SACD player since very soon after they were available for purchase.  Digital accuracy but with a detailed yet musical rightness.  In other words no digital glare due to upper midrange lower treble emphasis. Sounds as close to the sonic signature of good vinyl as I have yet heard from any digital source. It mates very well with Cardas Audio interconnects.