New amp or cd player?

so maybe i should go with a better cd player??? i really think this would help. any other ideas about a piece that would be better? i hate the nad because i cant replace the power cable, its hardwired. uggg thanks guys

amp - maybe a Forte 4 or 4a ... probably be a bit more than $500 but a true classic; another possibility is a PSE Studio IV. the Forte would need some breathing room as it runs HOT

CD player - Naim CD3 would fall into your price range; older model but still very good

good options i will look into them. ok this may be a stupid question but here goes. can i use my tube preamp with my old school pioneer elite 39tx reciever? i mean just use the amp part of the reciever. i like the tube sound but would like to use the amp power from the reciever. thanks again

If you "hate" the NAD CDP, then get something you like. Why keep it if you don't like it? But I doubt you'll improve the sound significantly if you stay within your price range.

Have you thought about using the NAD CDP as a transport and purchasing a good DAC?

Does the NAD have toslink out? If so, Music Hall Mambo or Maven as suggested above both have digital inputs and would be a great yet simple upgrade.