I have had a similar problem using Audioquest.Has a tendency to dryness/brightness. I would try a cardas s/cable or if you can move up to the meridian 508/24player(i have currently).this cd player is very analog like in sound!
Help with Bright B&W 802H
I have brand new B&W 802N,Meridian 506.20 CD player,McIntosh 532 amp, Adcom 750 preamp,Synerg. Res. Phase I Lumenescence single ended interconnect from CD to pre and Phase II Kalediscope from pre to power. AudioTruth Forrest bi-wire speaker cables. My system is too bright despite speaker placement. Great besides that. Any hints would be appreciated.