Best CD player for $700.00

I will totally agree with sdcampbell, and this may really garner the ire of some. I owned my RCA 5223P DVD player (currently available as last years model for $179 online) for 8 months before really comparing it to my Arcam Alpha 8SE CD player (list price $1000). The end result: I sold the Arcam. The RCA was every bit the equal of the Arcam, if not downright better (I posted a complete review at Audio Asylum for those who are interested in associated equipment). I have since further improved the sound from the RCA with a very cheap anti-resonance/vibration tweak and use a Cardas Golden power cord on it through an adapter that Harmonic Tech just came out with. I'm getting outstanding performance out of it (probably pretty close to Alpha 9), and would never again consider buying a CD only player. If I upgraded considerably (it would be considerable to me), I'd probably investigate something like the Pioneer DV-37 or the new Sony 9000 DVD player.

I wish I knew of a single box unit at $700 that would perform well enough to be really involving. It'd be simpler than the front end I'm using. However, I think the best bang for the buck is along the lines of what I have. Marantz CC48 5 disk changer/Monarchy 24/96 DIP/Dan Wright modified MSB Link DAC. Total cost with used digital cables= $910. One can buy a Link DAC used for $175-200, have it modified for $2-250.00 and use a Pioneer DV-333 ($200-new) and have a pretty darn good source. I hope you're happy with whatever you get.

I've never heard a crappy dvp with a dac, but i would suggest that you give Rotel's RCD-971 a try. You caould also wait a little while for the SACD players to cheapen.

I started using my Pioneer DV05 (instead of an old Studer/Revox A727) and am very happy with it. It's musical and enjoyable to listen to (but I haven't tortured myself by comaparing it to more expensive players). I can always upgrade by adding a DAC. CHeaper alternatives include the $200-ish Pioneer DV333 (with Burr Brown DAC chips) being modified by someone like Stan Warren for $200-$250, or using the $200 DV333 with a modified Link DAC ($450ish). I doubt you'd get a better player without paying much much more.

I think you will find the rotel 971 hard to beat. Probably you can get it for under 600$ with a little effort. HDCD and imho a more balanced presentation than the adcom.