I'm afraid I don't have experience with the RCD-855 directly, but I have done a comparison between my friends Rotel RCD-965BX and my Sony XA20ES. The Sony was much better, giving more low level detail, better bass control, and cleaner, more distinct highs. At $700 list, I think this is one of the better CD players < $1000. But as with anything, listen for your self first.
CD Upgrade
I have a Rotel RCD-855 CD player which is beginning to give mechaical trouble. I am looking to replace it with something in the $400-700 range and would appreciate any advice I can get. Can I get something in that range which will have an audible improvement over my current system ? My other components are a Marantz PM84D Integrated amp (purchased used for $400 recently to replace my Adcom GFP 455 Pre and B&K 202 amp) and Vandersteen 2Ce's. The interconnect between the amp and cd player is Kimber PBJ. The speaker cables (bi-wire) are Radioshack intertwined copper with transperant flexible plastic sheathing (about $2/foot). I like the Vandersteens very much. I like the PM84D very much too, but wonder if there are electronics out there now which may be significantly superior at a reasonable price. Also any advice on cables ? I listen to mostly classical music.