1masino- If you were to find a used Sony XA7ES for around that price (usually 800-900), grab it. It's a fine player and a great transport. That's a tough price range in which to find a new player that's a true standout. Good luck.
"Downsizing" to a maybe better CDP?
I need to sell my Linn Karik, and would like to buy used newer and hopefuly better sounding player than old Linn, for $700 max. Considering Sony 9000, but i am not interested in video and it doesn't play CD-r's aand i read that Sony doesn't play well regular CD's ? Any other suggestion for SACD or DVD-a, or just a CDP, that plays HCDC redbook CD's will be greatly appreciated. Listen classical(large and small), world, some jazz and very little pop/rock. Own Watt/Puppy 3, Perreaux P-250, Audible illusions 3a.