Again, recommended CDPs for $2K-$3.5K

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Greetings -

I realize that there are a couple of other threads on this subject. I've pored over them and still haven't been able to come to a decision, so I was hoping to find a bit more help by starting a new thread.

Novice here, just beginning to build a decent 2-channel system. I've already purchased a Spectron Musician II amp - fed by a P-500 regenerator - to drive Magneplanar 3.3 R speakers. I have an extensive CD collection, almost entirely redbook. (A separate system I have will handle other formats.)

For the forseeable future, I'll be running driving the amp directly from the CDP, so I'll need volume control on the player. I've seen two camps on that - some favor it, some do not, but for now that's my state of affairs. I don't anticipate vinyl at this time, nor will I be hooking a tuner, or any other units. Just straight CD, as far as I can determine.

I've strongly considered the Cary 303 players and have seen a number of favorable reviews. It might also help that the Cary facility is only two hours from where I live in eastern NC, making any needed repairs or tune-ups easier. Based on other recommendations, I've ruled out the Wadia 830, yet would like an AA Capitole MKII or Esoteric UX-3 were it not for the price tags.

Budget currently (i.e., before the gift-giving season) is between $2,000 - $3,500.

So with that, have at it. What would you consider, given these parameters?

Thanks in advance!
Rob