Best path to upgrade my source


I am a new start up in the stereo world. At present I have an Audible Illusions pre, 200 watt tube mono's, dynaudio 1.3 mk 11'S, and a highly modded marantz cd67se. I would like to upgrade the front end source. I am on a tight budget, and I'm considering either a Benchmark dac1 or Naim cdi or meridian 506. I prefer acoustic, soft jazz, and mild rock and roll. My listening habits revolve around detail and immediacy as my 53 year old ears have heard better. Any suggestions?
optimationman
Melm,
I am highly aware of current SMPS designs. In fact I have a HP SMPS that will drop-in right in to the Lavry. I sugested you a linear as it would be a simple test you can try yourself. But since your not technicaly inclined, you slam it instead. Typical. Proof in in your face as you mentioned, ML and Wadia,one of the few companies who knows the importance of the power supply. You never see a SMPS in their units.;c)..... SO, I guess he did not tell you WHY he uses one..... but yet the big boys dont.... lol.
Switchers do generate heat.
#3True about the 120hz issue in linears, but did he mentions how this is taken care of?
#2 is a bit Vague,,, sounds like he was choking when he was typing that.
#1 totaly false.
If you think error correction is good, and have data that is loaded full of data corection is better..... yur shot. please dont ask me too waste my time with you.

Regarding your PS to Ncwogger,Melm, you have no intrest, or education about this subject, so your comments or just a waste of space.

Ok, So, Melm,why do they use such supplies as the one in Lavry??? As you see, you did not get the truth, just like as I mentioned.

Anthony
Newogger,

Check out the Monarchy M24 at $980 new with 30 day trial (15% restocking fee). I'm extremely pleased with mine.
Clio09,

Thanks for the feedback. The Monarchy M22C with the piggy-back PCMs is on my short list. Are you talking about the M-24 with Line Stage for driving amps? How's the soundstage (width & depth; placement)? Monarchy web-site lists unit at $1490; Does Mr. Poon have a special running?

My short list includes:

April Music Stello DA220 DAC
Audio Horizons DAC-2a
Benchmark DAC1
Lavry DA10
Monarchy M22C

I've seen several on this thread talk about the Audio Lite Dac that I was wondering if anyone has heard its big brother (DAC 68).
I haven't heard any of the more expensive models of the Lite DAC Ah but clicking here, Audio Asylum will get you search results for "Lite DAC" where there are a number of threads about the various products. There's more information about the DAC 60 and 72 than the 68 but you might find something useful. (Scroll down the page a bit when it comes up so you can see the search results below the search box.)