Esoteric P-70 and D-70

Audioesq, thanks for your thanks, I don't know if I would use the term "JUST RIGHT", but based on auditioning many digital front ends I would offer the following as coming close to the sonic ideal you are seeking. The first would be the Ensemble HI-DAC that, to my ear's is a #1 dac but is never bright, harsh, or in your face, but offers silky/smooth presentation. The other is the Accustic Arts DAC1-mk3, which I chose for my system over a Reimyo and Audio Note level 4, which leans towards being a #2 dac but offers great detail/speed/prat with a more velvety/warm overall presentation. It's a great balance between details and musicality/liquidity. So, I would recommend you put both on your audition list and see which "flavor" is to your liking along with what synergy they have with your gear. Hope this helps.

spectral transport/dac combo still tops for redbook cd playback.

The p70/d70 combo can get #1 and #2 both right associated to different ancillary equipment. This is my system
#1 Antileon Gryphon amplifier, Sonus Faber Amati Homage
#2 Audio Valve baldur 70, Audiodata Avancé speakers
both driven directly from the digital preamplifier buried in the d70 DAC