Which sub $2k CD player would you recommend?

The Sony scd-1 I had sounded very good with the vsei mods it had, but was way too much of a pain in the butt for me to keep. It had read error problems soon after I bought it (used). It was repaired and within 3 years the same problems occured. If the machine is modded Sony won't touch it. Sony no longer has the sled motor for the scd-1. Also, Sony seems to only have one repair center left (in Texas), so repairs could take a while. I replaced mine with a Northstar transport and Northstar Extremo DAC. It sounds better than the scd-1 did (with the vsei mods)!

I think at under $2k, the CA 840c is hard to beat. Very extended and detailed highs but equally solid base.

Arbuckle

You have every right to be skeptical of posters here, so I suggest that you check what Arthur Salvatore has to say. http://www.high-endaudio.com/RC-Digital.html

The shootout included some pretty pricey stuff.

Bob

Arbuckle
The darn things weigh in at 32lbs this is not cheaply made at it's price. Has far as pumping it up, it seems to me at the price of 699.00 and at used price's here on audiogon this makes it very competitive. I beleive it did very well in a all digital shootout with much higher price gear on the audiocritic. I most likly would if I were looking for a fair priced cd only based player with tube circuitry, then this would be on my listeners list.

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