If you decide to go the separate cd transport and DAC route don't go the cheap transport route e.g. the Cambridge or Audiolab mentioned above , they are okay but you will be under optimizing the DAC. I had the Cambridge and moved on , it was pretty clear once I did.
I haven't used a Canor or Gato CD player but Atelier 13 (I am not "affiliated" with them just a customer) has deals on each one a demo, one a stock rotation a bit over $3K each. You can find reviews online if interested. Links below, just need to scroll to see the units
https://www.atelier13-usa.com/dealer-audio-component-demo-sales
https://www.atelier13-usa.com/new-dealer-audio-stock-rotation-sales

