Stuartk- I can't answer the question of how much the transport contributes or whether there are compatibility issues, but I when I added a newer outboard DAC to a CDP w digital out there was a definite improvement in the sound. Subsequently found that upgrading the DAC downstream of my music server also improved the sound. From what I can read on-line your CDP has a digital out so you can go that route, but, assuming you have the PartsConnexion (or similar) mod, you will lose the tubed output stage. In my case, when I went from a wireless connection to Modwright Transporter (with Tubed output stage) to USB direct output from my server into a Zodiac Antelope, I felt it was also an improvement, but I also have a tube pre-amp and amp. The good news is that with a $3K budget, you can get one heck of used DAC.
New CDP vs. Separate Transport and DAC ???
I keep reading " DAC technology is hanging rapidly". Therefore, is it a no-brainer to upgrade to a separate DAC and transport rather than a cdp? Schiit advertises that their DACs are upgradable, but I lack the technical background to grasp to what degree this might "future-proof" an investment in one of their DACs. Do transports affect the sound at all-- or is that entirely a function of D to A conversion? If the answer is "yes", to what degree does compatibility between any given transport and DAC become an issue? I tried the PS Audio NuWave and it had very little effect on my system (Wells Majestic Integrated, Modded Jolioda JD100 cdp and Silverline SR 17.5 monitors). Does this suggest I need to spend more on a DAC ? Let's say the total budget is $ 3000. Used is OK as long as I can demo stuff first. I've learned the hard way never to purchase anything I can't try out in my system, in my room.