Ohlala, after a couple of days of sitting on it, this is my conclusion as well.
I am not even sure about moving to the CDM1NTs, which would cost me at least $700 to upgrade to. I have done some research and reading, and found that I will definitely need a better CDP and Amp to make the speakers worth it. I've decided I'm not really willing to spend $2000 right now, even in a CDP and CDM1NT upgrade. Small increments is the way to go.
So, I will look at the 602S3s and consider CDM1NTs, but my feeling is that it will probably be the 602S3s, which will be $150 to upgrade to.
A couple of last questions. I'll be using my current Atacama Nexus 6 stands (24" high). Will the 602S3s be too tall for them? Second question - regarding the difference between the 601S3 and 602S3, if my room size measures 12' x 14', do you think it would be wasteful to use get the 602S3s, and possibly be too boomy? If it will be too boomy, then the 601S3 would perhaps be more compatible.
Thanks for all your help.