best SACD player

I'm in complete agreement for a used PS Audio SACD player.  As someone mentioned before: I'd also argue for the importance of the I2S/IIS (HDMI) output on any CD player. (Of course, your DAC will have to have that input.)

There is one exception to this statement.  The I2S (HDMI) output from the PS player will only provide full benefit if your HDMI input has used the same pin configuration as the PS unit has for I2S.  PS Audio will provide the pin configuration and even will mention the few brands that use the same configuration that they know of.  This works both ways, I tried a Sony player that had the HDMI out and verified that it is not fully I2S. If you are using PS Audio player to PS Audio DAC - it is a given they are fully compatible - and musical bliss is the result!  Why I2S has not become more standardized is a travesty.  All components of the digital signal align with one simple cable hookup.

McCormack UP1 Deluxe!

If you can ever find one. I have a Opera Audio Consonance reference 2.0 with a tube output buffer which is not too shabby either. BUT would  buy a UP1 if I could find one.....

Ok, here's the deal.  I have a Modwright modified Marantz 8005 with all the upgrades.  What can I do better the front end.  I'm not into streaming or computer audio and will only use Cd's and Sacd"s,  Luxman or Esoteric around 10K. or so.  I know it's a diminishing returns game but want the SACD ability. 

goose

Did you not bring-in a Luxman D-07x ?  If so, how is the MW 8005 vs. Luxman comparison?

Happy Listening!

Once you figure out how to rip your SACDs there's no going back.

I use an OPPO 103 to rip which you can get for $200. I load the files onto my Aurender's SSD but you can load them onto a portable SSD and play them through Esoteric gear or whatever.

Spend your money on a decent DAC, get one that plays native DSD. The only SACD I would trust would be an OPPO many expensive SACD player boat anchors out there. Plus switching between SACDs and CDs has always had glitches, except for OPPOs.