Need a recommendation for a multi-disc cd player

Both Denon and Marantz still make 5-disc players. Prices range from $299-$499. I had a Marantz years ago and found it very reliable never had a problem. Also when I wanted to sell it the Marantz sold in just 1 day. They carry a good reputation and even CD players keep some of their value.

You'll get different opinions, but no it shouldn't make a difference. I personally like CD players with good controls and features (like programmable macros), sometimes this costs more.

Pioneer's 300-disc DVD and CD changers are still for sale, either as old stock or brand new (I don't know), I know the DVD model can slave another unit (so 600 total discs) - but you're looking at around $1000 for 600 discs (great for DVD collections,but your CD collection is much larger than that).

I'd look at used equipment potentially (a decent CD player may cost you no more than $10 at a thrift shop), a file changer might be a good choice (25 or 50 disc capacity, I know Technics and Pioneer both made models) - let you run a lot of discs at once, but very easy to load and unload vs the Sony/Pioneer carousels.

I know JVC made a 5-disc changer that opens like a turntable, instead of with a drawer - looks interesting but I have no comment on reliability (I avoid 5-disc drawer units as they tend to die on me).

I have been using a pioneer pdf1007 for over ten years without a problem. I just recently added a second (used) unit so that it can play 602 discs. The current model pdf1009 cannot be daisy chained. Sound quality is great and the mechanism is quiet and fast. Found my second unit on eBay for $77.

I've got a 908 that is on its last legs. About 10 years old and starting to skip and reject disks. Not the greatest sound, but OK - and should be fine if you use digital out.

Yamaha used to make good changers, but the last thing I bought from them sucks. Not sure who makes their changers these days.