cd player suggestions

Dpm, looking at your system, it seems like you're happy with a valve cd player. Based on a rough stab at your budget i'd recommend a 2nd hand Modwright Sony XA-5400ES sacd player. That is a giant killer & will allow you to experiment with NOS tubes in future. A good 2.5yr old example recently sold on the 'Gon for $1990.

For a similar budget maybe East Sound (ESound) or for another tube Aesthetix Romulus...

I am getting ready to post a Shanling CD-T100 with PCX/Underwood mods for sale, if that is of interest to you.

Not just because I have one, but I really think you should try
to find an Ear Acute. I was told by the distributor that they
are out of production now, but there may be some new ones or
demos still out there. I really think it's a great piece for
the money and that you'd have to spend well over 10K to beat it.
It really balances detail and smoothness very well. The only
thing I would really prefer is if I could get a used Linn CD12
from a dealer who could provide service. That thing was the
best I've ever heard and I've also heard that Linn has plenty of
parts if it needs service. It was breathtaking. They usually
go for about $8K used.