Device to record & playback music ?

"Near CD quality"? The Alesis Masterlink IS CD quality; you also have the ability to record 24 bit (playback only in Masterlink) but the convenience of burining bit for bit compilations and playing back in your CD rig (or car) is a big plus. DAT is very good, but I don't have a DAT player in my car. You can get a Masterlink for $800. I love mine and the CD's I have recorded actually sound better than the source CD. I use the Mobile Fidelity Gold CD's and have had no drop outs and excellent, excellent sound.

Any other players?

You might want to look into sound devices offerings - industry standard for recording digital sound - they are also portable.