For that price range I would not get all focused on any one or two brands. Their are many good players/transports for around $1500. The only Esoteric I would own would have the awesome NEO VRDS drive (that's very expensive). I would make sure the unit you choose has the correct outputs of course. Also, a unit that functions well and quickly, quietly, with remote, you could use anything from a used Shangling to a new Oppo 105! Regards,
Matt M
Matt M