Optimizing my CD Source - what to do?


I've been following multiple threads on the topic of "Best CD Player for under $1000, or $1500, or (insert your budget here)", or similar.

I really need some assistance with the following questions:

If my budget is $1500 (preferably closer to $1000), and I'm interested primarily in Redbook playback -

1) Will my money produce real, obvious benefit over other players I've tried (see below), and the Sony DVP NC555es 5 disc SACD changer I'm currently using?

2) I'm running an Audio Mirror D2 NOS DAC; will I be just as well off getting a lesser player, or transport that has less in the way of processing but presumeably a comparable transport? For example, would the Rega Planet perform just as well as the Jupiter if I'm using the AM DAC?

3) I'm considering Rega Jupiter or Apollo, Musical Fidelity A3.2, Meridian 502.24. Any recommendations?

Backgound:
- My system consists of a Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista preamp, B&K M200 Sonata amplifiers, Totem Mani-2, Rel Storm III sw, various IC's, PS Audio statement spk cables, Pink Triangle 'table w/AQ PT6 arm, Grado Reference Sonata cart.

- I have tried multiple single disk players, including NAD C541i, Denon DVD2200 univ/sacd player, Sony DVP s7700, and none of them materially (indeed noticeably) outperformed my Sony DVP NC555es 5 disc SACD changer (ie on red book)
bdgregory

Showing 2 responses by listener57

Two ways to improve cd playback are to add the Genesis Digital Lens, which often yields results as if you modded the CDP/transport (before you actually take the step of modding), and use for digital IC the micro-priced Auricle Audio Design Encore Signature digital IC from Audiogon member, Joemazzaglia. The increase in detail (actually, the increase in "everything") delivered through your DAC with this unique digital IC is usually a desirable and significant upgrade.
Bdgregory, I have heard before and after comparisons of different CD players with the Dakiom feedback stabilizers, advertised here on Audiogon, and there is a true upgrade of performance with my less pretentious equipment. Acted as a non-invasive favorable modification.
Also, the modestly priced Monarchy line of jitter reducers is excellent, although not yielding the degree of external modification I hear with the Digital Lens whose effects follow from more than just jitter reduction. Both can now be bought and sold here on Audiogon without having to take a loss on the roundtrip, if you want to check out what they do.
Finally, there is a universal type of external upgrade to any component box in your system provided by the various philosophies reducing vibration with footers/spikes/supports from different manufacturers.
For example, Herbiesaudiolab.com has some types which cost very little, and up from there. A call to the contact phone number will get you some advice from the proprietor-guru of affordable, simple resonance control.