Which CD player to buy, Sony, Meridian, Theta, or?


I am going to purchase a replacement CD player now, but, the used ones I would like, are not around to audition. I need your help.
I have an Audible Illusions Modulus A3 pre-amp
Bel Canto EVO2 amp
Celestion 11 speakers (will be upgrading these next year)

The CD players I have in mind are: Theta digital Miles, Sony xa7es, Meridian 508.24, and the California Audio Icon MKII HDCD version.

It would be best for me to choose the least most expensive player, but, I want the best for the money. I want the best for my money, as, I don't plan on upgrading for awhile, i'm going to buy new speakers next year (and another Bel Canto EVO2 amp so I can have a bridged pair)
Any help would be greatly appreciated..
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The Meridian bettered my Sony SCD-777ES CDP by a little but the Sony was cold right out of the box and the Meridian was being discontinued. I think a modded Sony will better the Meridian which is were I am heading for now. I liked the Meridian over the Theta Miles at that time also. It was my favorite player at that time.
Out of the players listed, the Meridian is a no brainer. It is still as good as most players today. It was well designed when it came out and it is still well designed in the face of newer competion that talks the talk but can't walk the walk.
I would strongly suggest a Theta Miles (but it must be the balanced version). I liked it better than the Sony SACD-1, but then again I have not heard the others mentioned.
I havn't heard the Theta Miles but the Meridian 508.24 will better the Sony and the Cal Audio. It is a wonderful cdp that gets just about everthing right.