Best affordable SACD player that does superb CD's

Bmdduck,

I have both a 9100ES and its predecessor, a 9000ES freshly serviced by Sony Laredo. My impression is that the 9000 is superior for audio, especially SACDs, but the 9100 is superior for video. I run either with video off for stereo, and use the DACs in my Proceed PDSD when playing CDs. In my main system, I've settled on the 9000 for CDs and SACDs, and a PlayStation 3-80 for DVDs.

I think either a used 9000 or 9100 would be a good value for OP.

db

I think the TRL modded Sony CD595 is a great player that will give most any player a run for its money.

The cost was about $900 for player and mods and this player does not disappoint. I has some heavy duty artillery inside and gives the appearance of a mild mannered stock unit on the outside.

I'd certainly consider this among the best.

you would be shocked if you knoew how goos a Lexicon RT10 works for every consideration, they average $400 used

Ok, saw your price point.
Have 2 suggestions and own or have owned both.
First, the Marantz DV9600. Excellent universal player at your price point. I paid 2 grand for the honer of owning it when they first came out. You can get this at a relative bargain used.
Also had the Pioneer DVAX-10. Awesome machine. Gorgeous and built like a tank. Believe those to be well within your price range, used, as they were built a while ago. Can't remember exactly when I purchased mine but it seems like around 6-7 years ago. Actually still wish I had that DVAX-10. DVD-Audio on this machine was incredible!
Maybe a little out of your looking price point but, Esoteric's universal player is SWEET. Had the DV-60 and absolutley loved it.
Are you looking for Multi-Channel SACD or 2-channel? How about DVD-Audio? Surround or 2-channel?

Oh yea, CD playback is good on both these players at that price range. Not stellar mind you as this price range will limit what you can expect. Though the SACD and DVD-Audio were exceptional.
Hope this helps you in your search.