What are the best CD Player around $3500?

I have the Ayre CX-7e, just got the upgrade a few months ago. The detail, soundstage and imaging are incredible. I "hear" things in CDs that were not there before! Can't say that I compared it to your other choices but did compare it to an Opus-21. The Opus had a bit more detail but not enough to justify the higher price. And that was the "non-Evolution" CX-7. Not sure if it would better it now, probably not. Good luck with your search. Much of the pleasure is in the hunt!