How much does CD player affect overall sound?

Agree with Tholt. Modern electronics and digital technology has resulted in there being less differences between source/preamp/amp (once you reach a decent level like a Cambridge CD player) than with room and speakers.

Choice of speakers and the room can make night and day differences...one cd player versus another is often a matter of degree in quality and clarity or "flavor".

As a follow up if you haven't treated the room, as unsexy as that may sound, one cd player from another won't ever sound as good as they could, nor your system for that matter.

Source first and balance is best. I have heard small speakers sound great with good quality source and electronics.

Thanks to all of you who took the time to respond to my question. I think I read the general concenses is that I would have to spend major bucks to see much of an improvement. We keep lokking for that "perfect" sound that is always just beyond tge last dollar we have invested. But that is what makes this sport such a challnge. Thanks again Jacknorth1178

a master tape with whatever compoents will still soujnd like a master tape. whereas the best components in the world with a problematic recording can be a disaster.

the answer to your question is to find the best recordings and not worry about the components you have.