Best DVD/CD Player to buy

Without even hearing one, I'd say that the Camelot Roundtable would probably do the trick (it uses JFet's)

Arcam DV-88 is right in your price range.

Sony DVPs-9000ES gets my vote, smokes most anything in the price range and is so versatile. Very upgradeable too, I am working on a serious upgrade to mine about another 1500 into it but then it will do everything I need it to do. Also as mentioned you get a SACD player which is handy.

I would strongly recommend EAD Theater Vision P. Great CD and DVD player. Somebody is selling used here for $1599.
For more info about DVD players check http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_8_3/dvd-benchmark-progressive-shootout-2-8-2001.html
Boris

If you do find Arcam to suit your needs check out this web site for great deals on the fmjdv27 and the dv88
http://www.aslgroup.com/audiophile/nearlyperfect.htm
I owned a sony 7700 and a friend has a 9000es would take either Arcam over the sonys in a second. better sound quality and superior picture quality on the fmjdv 27. good luck