Good budget CD with variable out??

I would say the 67SE as well. I had one in a second system for a while and it was great. If you want, I have also heard that Musical Fidelity CD upgrade thing (the tube buffer) is a nice match witht eh 67SE, you might want to try that.

I would look into an older used Sony 707ESD CD player, or another model of older Sony ES. They sound wonderful and can be found used in your price range.

Parasound CDP 1000. used 150/200 a steal at this price.

Does the Parasound CDP 1000 have a variable out?

I have an Audio Electronic CD-1 for sale in the classifieds for $600.00. It uses a Marantz CD-63 transport mech. and remote (with volume control), but with a much, much improved chassis and (single-ended tubed) output stage. Really magical sounding, especially straight into an amp!! Audio Electronic is Cary Audio's entry level line. I paid $1500 2 yrs ago. NOT a budget cd player.