best CD player or DAC under $1000


What is the best CD player or DAC for under $1000.00? How musical can a player or Dac be fot that money?
84audio
Dear "84"--

I will add my vote for the Sony CDP-XA7ES. I had to buy some good separates to beat it and then not by much. I still have my Sony and am willing to part with it for a reasonable price if you might become interested. Shipping will probably cost $100 UPS ground because I do not have the original box and it is a heavy machine. The only other thing in this price range that I might recommend, even though I have never owned one is a used Meridian 508. But you will probably not get a 508.24 in your price range. Perhaps a 506 or 507. Good luck in your search!

84audio:
"...How musical can a player or Dac be ?"

...just add the dAck 2.0 if the essence of musical playback is a priority. You can try before you buy.
Tube Research Labs modded Sony ES2000 might be worth a look for you.
I think you can get one for around $800 including unit and the mod.
Good luck in your search.