From reading your multiple posts about this decision, I think you have yourself boxed in between minimum requirements and maximum budget. My take is that you want a CX bike with decent components and wide range gearing for no more than the equivalent of $1500. Most of the CX bikes that I see in that price range come with Sora shifters. They seem to work just fine, but whether you'll be happy with their odd lever arrangement is up to you. I would probably be inclined to up the budget enough to get something equipped with Tiagra or SRAM Apex. Budget constraints are important, but I try to make sure I am not setting myself up to spend more on likely upgrades than I would have spent by slightly going over budget.

Some of the spec'd cranksets are 130 BCD and can't go lower than 38 teeth on the small ring, while others have 110 BCD cranks which can go to 34. 36-46 on a 110 is a popular CX setup. I would look for something that came that way or consider a swap or takeoff, sell and replace.

Good luck. I'm sure you'll find something you'll enjoy.