If you want dependable, get a used Oppo, then add a region free kit. A used 95 is around $350-400, add another 50 for a kit.
Good quality, but you have to pay for it. It's also a killer quality cd/sacd player.
Older but still good are the model 83's. Less than $200 and I think all you have to do make them region free is type in a code sequence.