Players that are not digitally balanced generate the balanced output from the single ended output (usually via a phase splitter) and may actually sound better single ended.
+1
Great single ended CD/SACD
I've noticed that a lot of the top CD/SACD players are noted for sounding their best through they're balanced outputs. Ayre, Esoteric, and DCS come to mind. Are there any single box players of the same quality range as these that are equally good through good old-fashioned RCA jacks? Any recommendations?