Help picking a CD player

The selections on your list are actually quite good, but to me, the choice is very straightforward. I’m hesitant to buy used CD players. Second, I prefer top-loading models, which narrows it down to the SMSL PL200T—especially considering its I²S, external clock connections, and external LPS options.  Home audition it to see if it lives up to the hype.  Best of luck.
 

Creek and Audiolab are solid. 

I used to think CD players don't matter but I was wrong. Onkyo is another fantastic option. If you have a DAC, it matters less. Focus on a good DAC - such as Audiolab D7 - and and a Marantz CD player/transport and they will sing!

In addition to Creek, Audiolab and Rotel CD players already mentioned, I suggest you consider the Arcam CD5 and the Pro-Ject CD DS2 (transport only) and CD DS3 (transport plus DAC).  All should under or close to your buget.

OPPO with XLR sockets. Absolutely the best. 

@pippi have you listened to any of the CD players on your list?  If so, any standout machine?  My suggestion is almost always a new machine, but of course, if some clean low-hour used player comes along.  I won't recommend one because who knows what might come up on the used market.  I will say this about Craigslist, Chicago;  lately it has become terrible with people thinking their junk is worth its weight in gold, and when that great deal does come along, it's usually nabbed by some flipper who puts it back up there later at a higher price, and it stays there for months.