Does you cd player have a digital out?If yes I would definetely get a used dac.Even Audio Alchemy for low$$$.
What is a DAC, and why do I need one?
Sorry, but I am a noobie, and don't know much about audio. Questions about DAC's-I see that most systems have a DAC, but I am not sure what it is or what it accomplishes. Is it necessary for sound quality if you are running a cheaper CD player (under $300) as your main source?