Yba1a versus Dodson or simular quality

Not surprisingly, the YBA1 *is* better than yr 2a. BUT, are you dissatisfied with your cdp? Your pre? What aspects of the sound?
Anyway, the resolution and musicality of the 1 is superior to the 2, as I experienced the difference at a friend's system. You can upgrade yr 2 to 1 status, apparently.

Pls note that I listen to, and thereby judge by, classical; the rest of said system is YBA->YBA->Sonus Faber.

Sorry, don't know the Dodson!
Cheers

Kg, you may be served by upgrading the Kairn's power supply to latest specs ("brilliant" I think it's called). There's a slight improvement in resolution. Also try different PC's on the Kairn and the Kabers (if you haven't already): I had found that an aftermarket PC on the Kairn opened the soundstage a bit -- even a top quality, multi-shielded Belden.
Last, check the support for the Kairn

As to musicality... do you have another source you can try? Just to determine the *relative* effects of the YBA + Kairn combination.Good luck!