I have a Proceed CDP which is very similar to the ML39 ... only real difference is an 18 bit DAC vs the 20 bit in the ML. I just acquired a Sony 5400es and even after 20 hours burn-in in I was pleasantly surprised at the improvements that have occurred in the digital realm.
St01, without going to far OT can you describe a bit more the comparison between the CDP and the Sony? Is your Proceed the CDP, or CDP2 or 3?