Differences in CD players? Am I crazy?

"Admittedly, I have cheaper components. An entry level Kenwood receiver, and cerwin vega speakers,"

I think you have analyzed the situation properly. You need to compare the two in a higher resolution system and then see if you hear a difference.

I have found that the differences between digital devices is in general much less than between such things as speakers or amplifiers. YMMV.

subtle, but important differences. That pretty much sums up high end digital sources in my book. Some will say that you won't be able to hear these differences through your meager system. I disagree. You can hear the differences if you know what to listen for. But you should really count your blessings that you can't distinguish them at the moment. Once you do, then you will start lusting after a world class source. If you stay with this hobby eventually you will start to hear the subtle differences. it takes time and experience for that to happen.

I remember taking an msb link iii, evs dac, and adcom gda600 dac over to my brother's house. we played them through his aiwa receiver and eosone speakers (by first system, which i gave to him). I could still make out the differences, but he could not. So don't blame the system, even though i sure it isn't helping things. YMMV.

Most of the improvements you'll notice when you upgrade your speakers. And then you'll begin to hear the differences in other components.

I thought Teac was a "mass market cheapo brand."