Can't read the above without weighing in as well. My system is Proac 2.5's, Conrad Johnson Premiere 14 pre, and McCormack DNA1 Deluxe modded, with Kimber Select wire, throughout.
I use a Denon 2930CI via a Monarchy DIP to my DL III. First, the Monarchy makes a very big difference. In my system, since installing the DL III, for the first time since I have been an audiophile, I hear distinctly different music from every CD I have,instead of year after year of digital sound that overlaid every CD with a common shade of "tint" or artifactual coloration.
I enjoy my stock unit so much, I am afraid of hearing one of Rick Cullen's modded units. (-:.....again, IN MY SYSTEM.
Good luck with your decision, John