The Sony CDP-XE500 is phenomenal for $130 on the web. No way you'll find better sound for that kind of money. Good features on the remote and it's built very well indeed. I love Paradigm speaks. Also look at some of the PSB mini's. They are great for the money. You didn't mention amp or receiver. Why not look at the NAD L40--it's an all-in-one that's gotten some raves!
Cheap CD option for the folks
This is not a HiFi question, but maybe you can help. My parents have an inexpensive mass market system with crude speakers. They're retired now and have lots of time, and I would like to treat them to some better sound. They would never think it worthwhile to upgrade their system themselves, and whatever I do must be modest. So, I am thinking of something like buying them a pair of Paradigm Atoms, which would fit in well and wouldn't seem extravagant to them. ----- They don't have a CD player in their system (they do have a CD boombox), and I think maybe I should get them one of those, too. Are there any really inexpensive options -- I'm thinking maybe a well-made portable -- that people could suggest that would fit the plan here? I'm looking for suggestions for the cream of the cheapie alternatives. ----- Thanks.