The best CD Player for the money

Pbb, I know what you mean. Took me a while to understand
"running a HT PC/SPM XLR CDP/Pre for a nice tight sound" !...sounds that way, huh?
Can't help you with S/W off-hand, 'cept in my other world it's steering wheel, of course.

Re the ARCAM's PRaT, I will back off a bit and state that my results were with the thinner chassis'd ARCAM 9, and WITHOUT an iso shelf. Sticking a Neuance or Rollerblocks under the FM23 may really get it to boogie? Good luck.

The Sony SCD333ES. It is "A" rated in Stereophile. Combine it with the Van De Hul First interconnects!

If you can find a (now discontinued, I believe) Sony SACD 333ES, jump on it. Add a set of Black Diamond Racing cones underneath, and you've got truly listenable digital sound with the benefit of SACD capability. No, it's not the be-all end-all product, but it's VERY good, and I heard a rumor that you can get them on closeout at Best Buy for like $400. $60 on top of that for the BDR cones, and you're in business. Good luck!

the cambridge 500se is an excellent choice.it has a updated 24 bit 192khz dac.very airy and defined.if you shop around [audiolab] you can get it delivered for about 400$

none said but I'll say:
BAT VK D5.