Now what?


I like the sound of the Rega Apollo-R, but I don't like how it won't read disc that aren't perfect. I decided to start looking into replacing it. My journey began with a Densen 400 Plus. Wow what a difference. The Densen is bright, imaging is poor, sound stays between the speakers. Now I really understand when people say a component gives the prospective of sitting in the front row. My problem is I want to change from the Apollo, but I don't want to spend more than 2K for a new or used player. Can I do better than a Rega Apollo-R for less than 2K? If so, I need two or three recommendations to listen to.
ricred1
Chayro,

I will do a little research on the reliability of the Doge6 (your comments "if the thing doesn't break in the first year", has me worried). I'm lucky that I've been able to evaluate many items in my system prior to purchase. My wife and I use our ears, because it's our money. In addition, I realize that everyone hears differently and has different priorities.
I think you misinterpreted my comment, or I just wasn't clear. Defective or poorly-made electronics usually demonstrate problems very quickly. Pacific Valve gives you a year warranty. I have never owned any piece of electronic gear that did not break within a year and then went haywire later on. I don't know how long people expect CD players to last, but I would venture a guess that if any CD player doesn't break within a year, you're going to get a long life out of it. The usual culprits on CD players are transports and lasers, both of which are pretty easy to replace.
Chayro,

I definitely misinterpreted your comments. I will look into the Doge6 and let you know my findings. Thanks for the suggestion. I love the sound of the Metronome, I'm just hesitant to buy a 10 year old player.