Transport Recommendations

+1 for the Audiolab 6000CDT transport.  At around $500 it is a great machine.  I've owned it and put it up against a few very expensive players.  It made me wonder why I was spending so much more.  It has one job to do and it does it well.  Punches above it's weight.  IMHO

I really like my Audiolab 6000CDT transport and it’s quite inexpensive. I definitely recommend it.

I’d be all over that preowned Jay’s Audio unit if I were in need.  

Prices may not be current:
1.3 Yamaha CD-S1000                                    

2.0 Rotel CD6000T                                         

2.1 LUMIN U1 mini 

2.5 Jay’s Audio CDT2-MK3

3.2 Soundaware D300REF Transport

✅ 3.2 Project CD Box RS2 T

Check the post on the Rotel.  It can only function as a CD player or standalone DAC.  Not just as a transport.

Interesting thread:

Shanling ET3

I like this CD player. It can function as a stand alone Wolfson DAC or CD Player/DAC or just a transport. It could function as a backup DAC if you decide to upgrade and sell current unit while searching for another or if current unit dies. Little over the $2k budget but not much.

I know you prefer new, but at your budget I’d definitely go for this used Jay’s Audio CDT2 Mk3 as it’s at a higher level than the others. Seems to be in excellent condition and from a reputable seller who allows for returns if for some reason it doesn’t work out. This one’s a no brainer to me, and best of luck.

https://tmraudio.com/components/cd-sacd-players/jays-audio-cdt2-mk3-cd-transport-1/

I see new CEC transports offered here for decent money.  Sorry I am not sure of the seller.