Denon makes some of the finest DVD players available.....
Go with Denon.
The Denon DVD5900 is the ultimate......maybe you might be able to find one close to your upper range spending limit....if you are looking for the best, and can add a few dollars more.....
well, maybe........
I have the Denon DVD3800, and it is just an incredible machine....
Every day I am amazed at the quality and performance of this player.....a more film-like image is hard to get. And sonically, it is hard to beat too. Denon's DVD player (along with my new Outlaw products, the 950/755 combo) has re-awakened my enthusiasm for music and home theater.
Two words.......
Outlaw......
and
Denon.