You can get a PS Audio Perfect Wave MKII DAC and transport for used for nearly half of list that will give you a good dose of analog-like digital. See Anthony Cordesman's TAS review. The only set up I know to be clearly better is the EMM labs XDS1 and DAC2 and the crazy expensive MSB DACIV.
CD player with Vandersteen and Conrad Johnson
looking to upgrade or improve upon my current set up. Running CJ CT 5, and 250S--Vandersteen Quatros--having been alternating between my DP2 (McCormack) and Ayon 1 S----hoping for suggestions that bridge gap between my vinyl and my CD collection. No time to archive CD's at this point to program on my Apple or PC. Any and all feedback welcome.