Best redbook CD player

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).

BTW, you might be able to find a used APL Denon 3910 for around $2500. If so,
I'd be very surprised if anything comes close in that price range. You'd be in the
big leagues with the APL Denon.

Be the laser assembly has been replaced, as this is the only issue with these
players (it's a Denon issue, not an APL issue).

I too recommend the Resolution Audio Opus 21.

(Jeff Kalt, the owner/designer at R.A. is a great guy, and will bend over backwards to help you should you even need it!)