Tube DAC to take edge off Rega Planet 2000

In my opinion, the Planet 2000 isn't an edgy CD player, having owned one, and now owning a Jupiter 2000. That said, a non-tube option with a very lush sound that works exceptionally well with the Planet is a Bel Canto DAC 1 (or DAC 1.1, or DAC 2 depending on how much you want to spend) - I have used this combination before and it's a natural pairing.

Given that you're getting harshness with a famously laid-back CD player, perhaps the problem lies elsewhere. It could be the room itself causing this (first reflections, glare etc.), or some other component.

Yeah I doubt the Planet would be the problem... Look into possible cables, or the preamp. but since you are getting a mcintosh wait it out, those seem to solve a lot of over anylitical or less musical presentations anyway, so get the mcintosh first, you will see.

You may want to try the tube buffer by musical fidelity runs around 300 or so.