Time For a CD Player Upgrade

My two cents:  Late last year, I upgraded from an Oppo UDP-205 (which I've kept for Blu-Ray audio & video), to PS Audio's PerfectWave SACD Transport and their DirectStream DAC MK2.  I did so mainly to access the DSD layer of SACDs previously unavailable, through the I [squared] S output/input arrangement of the companion units.  

That feature is stunning, yielding DSD 64 playback that has been a pleasant surprise from The Doors catalog to many classical SACDs.  But the biggest surprise is CD playback, on par with the best-sounding SACDs in my collection.  

I don't really understand the technology, but PS Audio's "digital lens" is apparently the secret, a way of conveying the audio signal across a pathway independent of the hardware involved.  I doubt that's an adequate description; visiting their website is mandatory.

At $8000 + $7000, the combo isn't cheap, but PS Audio has one of the most generous trade-in programs I've ever seen.  Original MSRP for any component in resellable condition, no matter now old.  I've made some amazing deals with these people over the years.

Finally, full disclosure.  I'm completely unaffiliated with PS Audio other than being a thoroughly satisfied customer.

If I were you I would get a CDT/DAC combo such as CEC TL5 CDT (directly from Japan)/Gustard A26 or SMSL SUX DAC(directly from China) for less than $2000, instead of spending that much to upgrade your CDP... the S.Q. is far better than any CDP and offers its bluetooth convenience you can play Spotify via your iPhone or Galaxy phone besides playing your favorite CDs.

McIntosh MCD600. Makes music sound gorgeous. Also plays SACDs. And it has a preamp built-in so you can go directly to your amp or amps.

By taking my preamp out of the system I was rewarded with even more clarity of sound. Another veil that I wasn't aware of was lifted.

The directness, clarity and purity are breathtaking.

A used one is in your budget.

The volume control is a joy to use.

And so is the remote.

You won't be disappointed.

@no_regrets The Audio System is being packed away slowly/reluctantly. There is a intention to remodel the home.

This plan for the home places me not of the Market to commit to a sale.

I do believe, from my end and way of doing things, that I would be best to be straight, letting the Dealership Owner know, I am not in a position to commit to a purchase in 2024, or even 2025. It is then their choice if they want to entertain my inquisitiveness.

If I make it known I bought a PTP Solid Nine TT from them quite a few years past, this might jog their memory and create improved chance of a visit being arranged. It was during this same period of visits that I was introduced to £6K Streamer, which did not make any impression on me, apart from the beauty of the aesthetic, all that Burl Walnut. A type of Streamer one might expect to be found as the music system in a Bentley Vehicle.

@classicrockfan  "If I were you I would get a CDT/DAC combo such as CEC TL5 CDT (directly from Japan)/Gustard A26 or SMSL SUX DAC(directly from China) for less than $2000, instead of spending that much to upgrade your CDP... the S.Q. is far better than any CDP".

Another claim that you doubtlessly can't back up