I have demo'd every model from the AS 300 on up, and they are all amazing for their price point.
I bought both the AS 300 and recently the AS 2100. I tested the CD 2000 and it was nice, but I would not pay that money for a plastic tray. Now an aluminum tray and extra isolation and external sources is a no brainer. If you can pay for the amp, the complimentary player is a must. I was saving for a Mcintosh, but this unit will satisfy me for some time until I work out the details of the Mcintosh transport to Europe. But that's another story.