Besides the Audiolab 6000CDT,

I heard great things about this transport but didn't sound good in my system.

I replaced my DAC, but decided to see how ripped CDs sounded and they sounded great due to my new DAC.  Consider no transport as another option.

  Thanks for the advice, everyone. 

since (as you unambiguously state) you want a rec for something other than the audiolab, i'd look at the cambridge cxc. for much less $$$ you can't beat a used pioneer dvd-79.

I would look at used Bel Canto CD3t compact and  excellent sound could be in you price range. Made in the USA if COO is of any concern to you.

Something about those slot loading machines just bugs me.  And I have a Pioneer blu-ray player.  The loading time is ridiculous on those things and bugs me even more.  @loomisjohnson that cambridge just might be the ticket!  

@juanmanuelfangioii COO is not an issue for me, provided i can get decent service in the states, if necessary.   thanks!