Optimizing my CD Source - what to do?


I've been following multiple threads on the topic of "Best CD Player for under $1000, or $1500, or (insert your budget here)", or similar.

I really need some assistance with the following questions:

If my budget is $1500 (preferably closer to $1000), and I'm interested primarily in Redbook playback -

1) Will my money produce real, obvious benefit over other players I've tried (see below), and the Sony DVP NC555es 5 disc SACD changer I'm currently using?

2) I'm running an Audio Mirror D2 NOS DAC; will I be just as well off getting a lesser player, or transport that has less in the way of processing but presumeably a comparable transport? For example, would the Rega Planet perform just as well as the Jupiter if I'm using the AM DAC?

3) I'm considering Rega Jupiter or Apollo, Musical Fidelity A3.2, Meridian 502.24. Any recommendations?

Backgound:
- My system consists of a Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista preamp, B&K M200 Sonata amplifiers, Totem Mani-2, Rel Storm III sw, various IC's, PS Audio statement spk cables, Pink Triangle 'table w/AQ PT6 arm, Grado Reference Sonata cart.

- I have tried multiple single disk players, including NAD C541i, Denon DVD2200 univ/sacd player, Sony DVP s7700, and none of them materially (indeed noticeably) outperformed my Sony DVP NC555es 5 disc SACD changer (ie on red book)
bdgregory
In retrospect.Why put that much money (transport/digital IC) into improving a inexpensive DAC.Spend the money on a all-in-one quality player,you will come out ahead.The Gamut CD1MKII should be included in the list of players being considered.Or improve the DAC and retest the transport/players.There is a Timbre TT-1 available,that plus the used Parasound belt transport with a "quick" digital IC would produce much better results for your invested dollar.
Guys, I bought a Meridian 508.24 - received it Friday. It's a very nice improvement, and I didn't have to spend my whole budget.

Thanks to all for your input!
I think you made a good decision. Unless you've got money to burn, I just don't think its worth spending more than 2K on a digital front end these days if your plans are to upgrade within the next 12-15 months. The pace of change is too great (maybe it will always be -- I don't know).
no - I'm playing the Meridian stand-alone. I did some quick a/b when I installed it to convince me I didn't need the outboard DAC. took a few seconds.

The Audio Mirror is being used in a second system.