best SACD player

@onebean unfortunately the Marantz 30n and McIntosh MCT500 are in totally separate systems so I have not done an AB with them. The MCT500 will of course be highly dependent on the DAC you use. I have a Mac C52 and the results are superb. Interesting point about the MCT500 is the proprietary MCT output, which I believe is superior to coax and optical (I have all three connected and AB them frequently). But you preamp has to be a modern enough Mac to accept the MCT. 
 

Does the Mac provide better value? For most, I think the answer is no, due to cost. McIntosh gear has a high entry price. The 30n contains a DAC and allows streaming operation through the HEOS app. I love these features in a secondary system. But I’m fortunate to be able to invest more in my primary in search of better performance and I love the MCT500 for that. If you have a solid DAC available, I like the idea of saving for the MCT500. 
 

I’m intrigued by the KI Ruby as well but do not own one. 

Hey, what about the Samsung DVD-HD841?  Affordable, elegant and nice.

Ayre C-5xeMP ! I regret selling mine.

gpana

$1-4000 is a great price range. Many, many wonderful Players to discover.

Happy Listening!

I'm in complete agreement for a used PS Audio SACD player.  As someone mentioned before: I'd also argue for the importance of the I2S/IIS (HDMI) output on any CD player. (Of course, your DAC will have to have that input.)

There is one exception to this statement.  The I2S (HDMI) output from the PS player will only provide full benefit if your HDMI input has used the same pin configuration as the PS unit has for I2S.  PS Audio will provide the pin configuration and even will mention the few brands that use the same configuration that they know of.  This works both ways, I tried a Sony player that had the HDMI out and verified that it is not fully I2S. If you are using PS Audio player to PS Audio DAC - it is a given they are fully compatible - and musical bliss is the result!  Why I2S has not become more standardized is a travesty.  All components of the digital signal align with one simple cable hookup.