There really should be no difference. In fact, "cheaper" CD players may be using the exact same disc transport mechanism. Any CDP that skips is faulty. It should not happen.
Highend Players and Skipping CDs
Are Highend CD players more likely to skip on CDs that cheeper players will play fine or is it the other way around? I have noticed that alot of my mildly scrached CDs have been skipping alot more now with a higher end player. The player is from 2000, but in good condition. I had it professionally cleaned. It does alot better, but it does skip on CDs my cheep mini system will play.