CD player suggestions for Krell & Vandersteen

Hawthorne Stereo in Seattle has a flawless rcd 990 on consignment. I know because it is mine. I’d be happy to go along with whatever you negotiate as it needs a home.  I replaced it with an RCD 1572 to go with my rob/rc 1590. The 990 is more musical. 😱💸

The 840C is a very good choice, and I've had one for the past I've years. It just so happens that I put it up for sale on USAM a few days ago, so if you'd like to take a look....  It's very close to your price range.

Not I've years - five years.

Ok, so I was able to audition the Apollo with my gear, and my assumptions were correct: Even though the Apollo sounded very good, it was too bass heavy on the low end, and a touch too bright on the top end (when using it with the 300i and 2c’s). These attributes caused the mids to seem laid back. I did like the soundstage and imaging though—wow!

That being said, I think I need a player (or DAC) that is dead-neutral in sound. Yet, at the same time is detailed, articulate and transparent—without being rolled off on the lows or highs. It all comes down to finding that right chemistry with the 300i and 2c's. From some of the reviews out there (and somewhat my budget) I keep thinking Cambridge 840c or Linn Mimik. Might have to try them out just to see for myself. As for DAC’s, I’m not certain what’s out there that would fit the description above—for the money. The only issue with a DAC would be a transport: all I have to use right now is a budget DVD player. But, I guess it will do the job for the time being.

I have a Krell KST 100 power amp and Vandersteen 2 speakers. What I have is a Rotel RCD 975 as a transport and I got a great deal on a Muse 2 dac. This is a nice combo for the money with no upper mid glare  or brightness. A 975 isn't easy to find these days but Im sure other cd players ill work just as well.