If you are considering solid state CD players, then you should audition the Ayre CD player. Very smooth and musical, nearly tube-like in its presentation. And it will cost you about 65% less than $10K. If you want to go for state-of-the-art, look at Meitner players.
What should be on my short list...
What should be on my price no object (well ok $10K or under) short list of red book CD players. Music type is mostly jazz, classical,some older folk, but typically no headbanger stuff. Speakers would be Quad ESL 63's, Soliloquy SM 2A3's or Spendor SP 9/1's. Amps and pre are low powered triodes.