Looking for a CDP from a company that'll be around

Nah...MF isn't gone...it's just servicing them (especially, older models) is extremely problematic; I also happen to be in the camp of those who believe they don't make them like they used to. So, it's time to move on...

True, no one could tell with dead certainty, if a company would be around in 5-6 years: that's why it's a guesstimate. Yet one hopes there are definite indicators pointing out to their business model being a projected success or bound for failure. Off the top of my head, Krell would probably stick around.

Thanks to all for the input! Look, I am past the stage of sonic experimentation: selling, trading, buying, swapping...and finally, I am positive, I've settled down to a system I've had now for a couple years. Pragmatic stuff- like value, service, longevity and reliabilty are now the top priority. I am also now a big believer in the diminishing returns side of things, and frankly, with CD-format being in a state of what it is, $2-2.5k used for a CDP is what I'd be comfortable with and feel good about.
That said, Bryston+Marantz+Rega+Krell+Esoteric look good and are reasonably diversified.
Audio Research and some other high-priced mainstays might just price themselves out into extinction. One- (or two-) man operations aren't looking so good at all!
Economic instability definitely makes one think twice about extravagant hi-fi purchases..since no one really wants to end up with a $2-3k boat anchor

"Lexicon RT-20..."

Sorry, they're getting out of the player-making business...parts availabilty, turn around time etc etc.
Not so sure

I think that the idea of treating CDP's as disposable devices with a rather limited life span is of merit. Before I settled on my Musical Fidelity, I did what some of us do: purchased 3 units to compare, with my CD-308 being the least expensive (@ $1250). The other 2 were in the $2-2.5k range used. All three were different-sounding...nothing drastic or absolutely horrendous, merely different. As tempted as I was to step up price-wise and get the most expensive one, I came to a stark realization that it just didn't make good sense...because in 3 or so years I'd have to move on to something else regardless, either out of boredom or because of mechanical issues. That said, each one of us determines his/her own definition of what disposable price range would be.