CD Player to match with ARC and B&W 802 Martix

YBA makes digital closer to analog than most players in it's class

My system is sort of like yours: ARC VT-100, LS-16, B&W Matrix 802's III.
I've tried Wadia 830, Levinson No.39 and Meridian 508.24.
The Meridian is my preference for overall musicality and soundstage.

Save yourself so money!!! Use the Planet as a transport and get an external DAC. I am currently using a MSB DAC III with my Rega planet and 802 Matrix III's. Real mellow combination. No listener fatigue.

I heard a new ARC CD3 today in an all ARC system with Wilson-Benesch Act Ones at a Dallas dealer, Audio Concepts. I didn't want to leave. Since they are new, not many, if any, used units around. I use a Linn Ikemi with a Plinius 8150 integrated the B&W Matrix 803s. I couldn't be happier (although I'd sure like to get those Act Ones into my system). Good luck.

Ditto to Joeldoss recommendation. I heard the
arc CD3 at an Audio Society meeting and even though you may need to buy new it is a good value. It has a new and very superior transport and does not require purchase of an external DAC. If you are willing to wait a few months, a demo or used one will almost surely show up on Audiogon.