Which sub $2k CD player would you recommend?

For lots of detail and great bass slam try the Cary 303\200 or 303\300. Each can be had for 1200-2000 used. They're superior "Class A" machines. When I a\b'd the 303\200 with the 840c I preferred the smoother sound of the 840c BUT your tastes seem to run to more detail and superior bass which the 303\200 does have.
Good Luck,
Raul

Arbuckle,
I would say the 840 has the deeper soundstage by a hair but either unit will be clear and present well-defined instruments and vocals. The 840 is just better at giving you the resonance of a guitar body while the Cary seems to have sharper leading edges and a less "full" sound (shorter note decays?). We have to talk about "different" as opposed to "better". Both are great. Better than either of these at defining instruments in space was the Marantz 8001, but it was too "cool" for me.
Raul