Upgrade transport and lose Genesis Lens?

I had an interesting trial when I eliminated the Genesis Digital Lens temporarily, because I had finally found digital IC which sounded spectacular while adding no jitter to the output from a modded CDP used as a transport (Auricle Audio Design Encore Signature Digital IC).
It turned out that the Lens does something more for the music than merely eliminate jitter as the signal travels on to the DAC in this test system, because the rich and three dimensional quality of full range sound suddenly became flatter. Simply re-installing the Digital Lens with another Auricle Audio digital IC re-established the best sound.
Each part of this complex chain has been inserted to audibly improve the sound, yet it still surprised me, all over again, that simplifying can sometimes diminish sound quality.
If a Genesis Digital Lens does not enhance your system then perhaps there may be a malfunction of the unit.
Also, simply buying a great all-in-one CDP might actually better any patched together set of components. As Krell man suggests, you have to try a few variations until you hit on what sounds most pleasing.

Kleonard, Two simple ideas:
Join one of the NYC metropolitan area audio clubs to have access to personalized assistance, minus any NYC retail sales pressure. A club member might even make a "housecall" to work with you.
If you like to attend audio events, check out the announcement for the VTV Audio and Music Expo May 6-7 in neighboring New Jersey.
Either way, you'll hear some fine equipment to which you may be attracted, if you don't hear all you want with your present multi-unit approach. I am satisfied with my systems, but would not hesitate to start over with a great all-in-one if I felt at all bewildered by what to change to get the desired sound.