Best redbook CD player

with that budget you have a wide range of players to choose from. But to pick the absolute best player, impossible. I can say their are audiogon members that will tell you including myself. That the old JVC 1050tn player at a price of 150.00 used or an older Jolida tube will sound very competitive compared to newer, and will keep much needed cash in your pocket for plenty of used and new Cd's. This is just my take on newer gear, and many will disagree.

The Bryston BCD-1 is worth considering and in your price range if you consider demos or the dealer is willing to deal.
Check out the reviews. It put out impressive and involving music.

As John said, there is no best.

From my personal experience, I believe a used Modwright Sony 999ES Platinum
edition with tube power supply to be exceptionally good for $1000 - $1500. It's
very close to my $6500 APL Denon 3910, (which has bested several +$10,000
players in a couple comparisons).

I recommend the Modwright highly (and superb customer support too).

if you're not into high resolution audiophile recordings...then I'd suggest any of the below JVC CD players:

JVC XL-Z1000/XP-DA1000
JVC XL-Z999
JVC XL-Z999EX

I would look into the Accuphase units or the RA Opus (as mentioned above).