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CD Player Suggestions under $ 500

I'm doing little research for my brother.  His old CD player died and he has a budget of $ 500 to replace it.  Any suggestions would be much appreciated.  I think he would prefer new but would consider used.  If the player could play MP3's or stream, that would be great as well.  Thanks.
redcarerra
12 responses Add your response
tpreaves's avatar
tpreaves
2,682 posts
 
I think either of these units would be a good bet.



https://www.crutchfield.com/p_642CD6006/Marantz-CD6006.html?tp=197

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_745C546BEE/NAD-C-546BEE.html
redcarerra OP
55 posts
 
Thanks, I think those are both great suggestions.
gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
At the $500 price point, this is a top contender... 

https://emotiva.com/products/sources/erc-3
mgreen27
147 posts
 
I would also consider Cambridge. The build quality is very high. If you happen to come across a used Rotel 1072 in good shape, I would buy it without hesitation. Best entry level CD player I've ever heard.
willland's avatar
willland
846 posts
 
If you like Yamaha, then grab this.

http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamcdn500bl/yamaha-cd-n500-networking-cd-player-wi...

Bill
grinnell
1,086 posts
 
Music hall
tomcarr
1,480 posts
 
Discontinued, but if you can find one, an Oppo 103. Class B rated by Stereophile.
Current model is the 203, price is higher, $549.
Very happy with my 103 in my Krell/Vandersteen system...

Tom
jafant
19,296 posts
 
As above-
Creek
Music Hall
NAD BEE series
panzrwagn's avatar
panzrwagn
506 posts
 

My Marantz was the first CD player I ever owned that sounded noticeably and immediately smoother and more musical. That's saying a lot for a $600 retail product. Second place definitely goes to NAD, followed close behind by the Yamaha.

mahler123
3,251 posts
 

Sony had some universal players in the $400 range but the weak point was the DAC.  If you have an external DAC you like then it would add SACD and Blu Ray to the party 

scott22
257 posts
 

I have been using the Marantz cd 6006 for a few years now and no complaints it has never failed me. However members here pointed out it is the weak link in my system and should be upscaled. My system sounds real nice with this CD player. As a 78 yr old with hearing issues I doubt an upgrade would be noticeable for me.  

shtinkydog
657 posts
 

i hope the porsche guy found his cd player.   it's only been 7 yrs. 

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