Best CD Player under 2k ?

Thanks for your input, Matt413575. The rest of my system is ARC LS-15 preamp, ARC VT100 Mk-II. My speakers are currently IMF Monitor Mk III (25 yrs old), but I will be replaceing them soon. My "short list" for speakers is: Triangle Celius, Living Voice Auditorium, or Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home.

I really like your choice of the AR gear. I have heard the AR CD3 in a similar all AR setup and Proac 3.8s. Truely awesome. I am by no means an expert, a novice is clearly a better discription. However, If this was my setup, I don't believe there would ever be a need to upgrade. It just sounded stunning. I suspect the CD2 would likely get you close to this. In addition you may want to add the Proacs, either 2.5 or 3.8 to your short list of speaker choices.

I would look seriously at the Cary 303/200 for standard redbook or if you want SACD capability, and I think you should seriously consider it, the sony xa777es(new at odde brothers) multichannel or scd777es(used) two channel. The high resolution format is simply astounding when played on a system capable of extracting all its glory.

Second the vote for a used Naim CD3.5 (especially with a Flatcap) or CD5.

Your partnering equipment is pretty revealing, and you might be surprised just how many shortcomings you can show up with $2K. Once you upgrade your IMFs you're likely to get a huge amount of transparency. I have heard most of the players recommended above. The Rega gear, in my opinion, is awful - thick and slow. The Cary makes a good first impression but really lacks the clarity that you can get for $2K. The MF is just ok. Although not the best soundstager, the Naim will get you a long way. I would also highly recommend the Audio Note gear. Hope this helps.