Dear "84"--
I will add my vote for the Sony CDP-XA7ES. I had to buy some good separates to beat it and then not by much. I still have my Sony and am willing to part with it for a reasonable price if you might become interested. Shipping will probably cost $100 UPS ground because I do not have the original box and it is a heavy machine. The only other thing in this price range that I might recommend, even though I have never owned one is a used Meridian 508. But you will probably not get a 508.24 in your price range. Perhaps a 506 or 507. Good luck in your search!
I will add my vote for the Sony CDP-XA7ES. I had to buy some good separates to beat it and then not by much. I still have my Sony and am willing to part with it for a reasonable price if you might become interested. Shipping will probably cost $100 UPS ground because I do not have the original box and it is a heavy machine. The only other thing in this price range that I might recommend, even though I have never owned one is a used Meridian 508. But you will probably not get a 508.24 in your price range. Perhaps a 506 or 507. Good luck in your search!