I was on the same quest and am still tied to CD/SACD playback. I had a Modwright player and did a ton of research on a separate transport / dac that would do SACD's. PS Audio was the only choice that I found that was viable in the price range I was considering. I have some concerns about their products and pricing structure but I won't go into that. If you don't care about SACD's there are excellent options as mentioned. I finally ordered an Esoteric K-03XD based on it's transport and overall performance. I got a 20% discount and at least it has a three year warranty which is better than most others. I can always get a streamer at some point. It should be here next week.
upgrade player or use modified oppo bdp 105 as transport
New to asking questions but I am looking to replace my "Modwrighted" (all mods and power supply) Oppo BDP 105 (not 105D) player as I believe there's much better out there these days and I have experienced expensive tube deterioration way in advance of claimed hours. ( leads to bright or harsh sound) (solid state only in the future) Love that it plays and decodes all (SACD,HDCD,CD) (yeah blue ray and DVDA too but I have none) Was considering using it as a transport to a killer DAC (MQA included) but was under the impression the bdp105 lacks the most effective means of outputting digital info to an outboard DAC.?????? (digital outs listed are "optical" and "coaxial') Really loved the sound but I think things have improved on the digital frontier over the last 7-plus years.
All input is most welcome. Thanks.
System: Modwright/Oppo BDP 105 as a source
Parasound JC2 Pre amp into a Pass Labs X250.5 amp to Harbeth 30.1 speakers on stands.
Cables. Cardas balanced (xlr)