I don't mind spending a bit of money if I get a good player which is stand alone (no monitor/menu). I'm interested in the Parasound ZCD and the Marantz if they have simple push button controls.
You can use either without a remote.
However the Parasound unit cost 449 GBP in the UK. That is equivalent of $670 US dollars.
Members here please be careful giving advice to UK members. Unless you have good knowledge of the UK scene then it is unwise to offer advice.
The Marantz unit I recommended can be had on Amazon UK for $269 GBP. That is half the cost of the Parasound and likely the better unit.
I hoped I could find you a cheaper unit, but that is the lowest priced unit that is definitely a good unit. It is a top recommendation on Watt Hi-Fi and I would agree.
If it is a good reliable stand alone CD unit you want then that is your best bet.