Well, I have yet to meet anyone that I feel is qualified to decide what the World's Absolute Audio Reference (WAAR) should be. Who is to say what is right and what is wrong? I believe we have yet to find a system, whether recording or reproducing, that recreates exactly what we would hear in a live performance - so there is no standard - and thus no room for absolute judgement.
In addition, hifi is no different than any other complex system: there are infinite combinations, if not in design, then in execution or reaction. Why aren't snowflakes identical to each other? Because there is no right way. There are simply too many variables. To me, a stereo is like a person: it has its own character, attitude, likes and dislikes. You jive with some people and not others - just like some stereo components jive with each other and others don't. Throw both humans and systems together and you get an even more complex result with no hope for an absolute answer. I like to say that if something seems simple to you, then you haven't looked at it hard enough. Our universe is filled with many other examples of this chaotic state but I will digress here.
Foster - I know where you are coming from. Synergy is definately the key and, based on the phrasing of your question, I feel that you are experienced enough to determine when you have it or not. On to my suggestions: You may want to try an Audio Aero Capitole. Not sure if you like the top loading design but it sounds supremely natural to my ears, with fantastic timbre and space. It will make beautiful music rather than beautiful sounds.
Otherwise, the new Naim cd players are stellar and would also lean the direction you seek. They have a very nice treble that never accentuates the deficiencies of poor recordings. The CD5x is my personal favorite after hearing it in a couple different systems and falls right in your price range.
I have an EQ in my McIntosh preamp that serves me perfectly when I am faced with recording qualities I don't approve of. It doesn't take but one dB here or there to make it all much more enjoyable. But then again, I also have two cd players with each different characters that are each suited to their own type of music. See my system page for more info. It is all about specialization - just like any other technical field.
Anyway, there are many good choices out there. Best thing is to "buy and try" to see what works for you. It takes effort and hassle but in the end, it is the only method that covers all the variables relative to you. Good luck in your search.
Arthur
In addition, hifi is no different than any other complex system: there are infinite combinations, if not in design, then in execution or reaction. Why aren't snowflakes identical to each other? Because there is no right way. There are simply too many variables. To me, a stereo is like a person: it has its own character, attitude, likes and dislikes. You jive with some people and not others - just like some stereo components jive with each other and others don't. Throw both humans and systems together and you get an even more complex result with no hope for an absolute answer. I like to say that if something seems simple to you, then you haven't looked at it hard enough. Our universe is filled with many other examples of this chaotic state but I will digress here.
Foster - I know where you are coming from. Synergy is definately the key and, based on the phrasing of your question, I feel that you are experienced enough to determine when you have it or not. On to my suggestions: You may want to try an Audio Aero Capitole. Not sure if you like the top loading design but it sounds supremely natural to my ears, with fantastic timbre and space. It will make beautiful music rather than beautiful sounds.
Otherwise, the new Naim cd players are stellar and would also lean the direction you seek. They have a very nice treble that never accentuates the deficiencies of poor recordings. The CD5x is my personal favorite after hearing it in a couple different systems and falls right in your price range.
I have an EQ in my McIntosh preamp that serves me perfectly when I am faced with recording qualities I don't approve of. It doesn't take but one dB here or there to make it all much more enjoyable. But then again, I also have two cd players with each different characters that are each suited to their own type of music. See my system page for more info. It is all about specialization - just like any other technical field.
Anyway, there are many good choices out there. Best thing is to "buy and try" to see what works for you. It takes effort and hassle but in the end, it is the only method that covers all the variables relative to you. Good luck in your search.
Arthur