The DAC chip in your CD player PCM63 is one of the finest DAC chips ever produced. It is 20bit but will hold its own against 24bit chips. You could always talk to Stan Warren about your player; whether is it worth upgrading. He is always helpful. Stan will not sell you anything; just give you his unbiased opinion.
CD - upgrade, replace used, buy new?
After years of non-listening, I have upgraded my system and need to take the last step. System now consists of CJ MV-60 amp, McCormack TLC and Superfon/Stan Warren modified SP-100 (buffered line stage), Shearwaters, and old Pioneer PD-93 Elite CD player. This player was their top of line machine -- $2000, dual power supplies, dual Burr Brown PCM-63 DACs. I have listened to some of the new Rotels, Creek, Sonys, Rega Planet 2000. I must admit I am at a loss. The Pioneer side by side with a Sony DVP NS300 is a hard call. The Sony appears more forward and open on top (or is it brighter) but has no warmth, bass or depth compared to the Pioneer. The Pioneer is warm and musical. Let's set the budget at 2 levels 600 and 1000. I am also willing to trade or sell the Pioneer. Let the games begin. Many thanks.