Did this same search a couple of years ago, and the Panasonic UB820 for $400 (ish) seemed to be the clear winner from a value perspective. But they also make a reference-level player for $1k (ish), Panasonic UB9000.
Essentially is has the same video and audio quality as the 820, but said to maybe be slightly better in certain nebulous ways, forget which and why. The main difference is that it's built like a tank and looks and feels like a proper high end audio system component.
Of course I bought one of each, like I do. But they're in totally different locations and connected to totally different TVs and systems. I never did A/B them. Duh!!
Those who have compared them seem to think that the 9000 may be slightly better. Which likely means better at feeding your placebo and ego needs. But the 9000 sure is a nice piece of gear, and probably worth an extra $100 or $200 for that. If it was $600, maybe a logical case could be made for it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q2GXYRG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1#customerReviews