What's the "worst" cdp for the money?

That's Bachman Quacker Motordrive, and I do hope you pick up our new album.

I've heard A LOT of players over the years, and probably thirty or more over the past two years. Some I really enjoyed, while others just didn't do it for me. But not a single one fit the description of "$3K player that sounds like a $300 player." Sorry to disappoint, but that's just my opinion.

Ditto on that one, Wc65mustang (and Quackfat). Our entry into this foray was via an $800 CDP. Our current source runs just over $5K, and it's hard to fathom that they are of the same format. There is a sonic chasm between the two.

IMHO law of diminishing returns kick in much quicker when it comes to cd players, the difference between a $500 cd player and a $5000 cd player is not very big, unlike speakers or turntables. I personally don't see any merit in purchasing a cd player costing more than $2000.

I'm not assuming anything beyond what you have written here, Quadophile. I simply disagree with your statement. That's all.