I can tell you one brand NOT to go with for playing CD-Rs and the like is NAD. I love NAD products and have some in my system now and in past years but it has been my experience that NAD players don't do well with these types of discs. Rotel on the other hand perform more reliably.
cd player that forgives bad cd recordings
I now own a Meridian G08. I'm in the market for a cd player, and would like recommendations for a player that is forgiving to less than good recorded cds, but also is stunning with good recordings. I would prefer a single box, stand alone player.