Oppo UDP-203

I had one for about a year and a half and I really wanted to like it, but it was just very ordinary-sounding IMO.  I just didn’t want to listen for long periods of time. Frankly, I gave up on SACDs because, as you pointed out, your good DAC playing red book sounds better than SACDs on the Pioneer. I used to have an Esoteric X-05 and it was the same. Maybe when you get into the 10k range, the players bring out more of the potential of SACD, assuming there is any, but I haven’t experienced it. Certainly not with the 205. 

The Oppo is a jack of all trades, master of none.  I wouldn't get one if SACD is your main reason for doing so.  I think I'd be disappointed too if a $200 DAC sounded better than my SACD player.  I like my Marantz SACD player.

I've a dedicated SACD Player (Denon 2500NE) and the Oppo 203.

If you really want to get most of our the SACD, then but a dedicated player. If you want a multiplayer, definitely go for the Oppo ..