Check out the What Hi Fi "budget compact disc players" recommendations. Have choices within your friends budget. For a slightly pricier alternative, I would suggest considering the Audiolab 6000CDT or the Cambridge Audio equivalent (transport only / $600 +/-) and find a DAC that you like within his budget. Several reputable e-store options that offer audition / full refund options. Crutchfield, Music Direct, Audio Advisors and Listen Up to name a few. Better sound, more flexibility initially and, more importantly, future upgrade options.
Seeking Budget CD Player Suggestions
I also posted this question in another forum. A friend of mine has an early 90s era Mac CD player which is on its last legs. Great player in its day, but he is on a budget (around $500) and needs to replace it, preferably new, dealer demo, open box, etc. Rotel CD-11 and Marantz CD-6007 have been suggested as top picks in that price range. Any other suggestions, ideas, reasoning for a particular model? If Rotel, would the Tribute or Mk. II edition be preferable?