old expensive cd player or new cd mid price ?

Well I can't speak to those two exact players but I am thoroughly enjoying my 1995ish vintage Sony XA7ES player - I was using a Denon 3930CI. Just remember that replacement laser blocks for these older players are impossible to find so once the laser goes the player is likely done.

Mark

For what it's worth, I have the Marantz DV6001 used for 2 channel and multi-channel SACD and it is superb for the money. I can't believe the sound that comes from this unit. Love it. I would say the DV9500 would sound even better. Is this new or discontinued? The Accuphase DP-11 is 1990 vintage. It has only an 18-bit DAC where the Marantz has 24-bit. Having said all this, it's still comes down to the sound but CD players have improved dramatically since the early 1990s, even over the past 5 years. My vote would be for the Marantz. Are you buying the Marantz preowned?

yes, 2 model in mint condition