Well maybe not quite that far but I thought I would pass along some feedback on a CD player I just got. It is a Cal Audio Labs CL-15, yeah I know not brand new, but I have been using a Cal Audio DX1, with a home brew DAC. I have heard many big buck players and transports and I must say the CL-15 is very, very good. Very nice tight bass and mids to die for. Highs are not bright and brittle. Popped in Orbital Blue Album, and wow. So if you are looking for a fairly recent, great sounding player and don't want to spent $2000, take a look at this one.
Tim