I had an Arcam Alpha 9 and really liked it. I listen to mostly classical and jazz, with a little rock as well. The 9 was a great player, in another league compared the to the 7. I've found the Arcam line in general to be terrific buys for the $$s and would check out the DiVa 92, Alpha 9 and FMJ CD23, all using that famous ring DAC. The Alpha 7SE is great entry-level player, but these other Arcams will stomp it.
When I upgraded my 9 I listened to several CDPs, including Wadia 831 & 861, the Resolution Audio CD55, the Linn Ikemi and Meridian 508.24. I really liked the Meridian, and I'd heard one quite a bit in a friend's system, but I couldn't find one used at a good price at the time.
I ended up buying the Cary CD303, and I think it's a very fine, musical player. You should be able to find one for well under $2000 used (they list for $2995 and are frequently discounted). The 303 is wonderful on acoustic music and jazz, has a beautiful, tonally rich mid-range, good rhythm and pace, detail and excellent bass (unlike previous Cary CDPs) - just very musically involving. Highly recommended.
Good luck with your search.
When I upgraded my 9 I listened to several CDPs, including Wadia 831 & 861, the Resolution Audio CD55, the Linn Ikemi and Meridian 508.24. I really liked the Meridian, and I'd heard one quite a bit in a friend's system, but I couldn't find one used at a good price at the time.
I ended up buying the Cary CD303, and I think it's a very fine, musical player. You should be able to find one for well under $2000 used (they list for $2995 and are frequently discounted). The 303 is wonderful on acoustic music and jazz, has a beautiful, tonally rich mid-range, good rhythm and pace, detail and excellent bass (unlike previous Cary CDPs) - just very musically involving. Highly recommended.
Good luck with your search.