recommendations for a sub $2000 cdp

I love my JAS Musik 1.2!!!

I think it depends if you need SACD or just Redbook that you're after as well. if you're strictly Redbook I'd look at the Bryston BCD 1 as well as the ARC CD 3 and maybe even the Sim Audio Equinox or SE version. Also helps as what music genre you like for your match as well. Hope you find one soon to meet your needs.

I have a Cary 303/300 and like it very much. It is a very musicial and harmonically rich player with good tight bass characteristics. Plus I can fine tune the sound on the tube output side by rolling tubes (which I've done).

The player was discontinued 1/1/09 and there are several on AG in your price range. If my CD player disappeared one day, I'd replace it with another 303/300. For $1800-$2200 they are a good value ($4000 MSRP).

My 2 cents.

rsjm80

It's mainly redbook (classical/jazz/rock).

Anyone had the chance to match the ARC cd3 with the cary 303/300 and also the MF A5 ?

I like Jax's recommendation of a disc player:

03-12-09: Jax2
I'd look at a used Modwright Sony 9100 Platinum Signature Truth, or perhaps a used Electrocompaniet EMC-1UP.
Jax2 (Reviews | Threads | Answers)

Having owned a Modwright Sony 999ES, and an Electrocompaniet EMC-1UP (both stock and modded by Empirical Audio), I would suggest the Modwright Sony 9100ES for my sonic preferences (and format flexibility).

However, it's possible the Electrocompaniet might be more reliable over a longer period of time. This observation is based solely on many of the most reliable CD players being top loaders, which includes the EMC-1UP.

In defense of the Sony 9100ES, I have not read any complaints of its reliability.